You do not need to empty every cupboard before requesting a quote. A clear scope, useful photographs and a list of things to keep are usually a better starting point.
1. Decide who is authorising the work
For your own belongings, decide what you want removed. For a rented property, someone else’s contents or an estate, confirm authority before arranging disposal. Resolve uncertain ownership with the responsible person or adviser.
2. Mark what is staying
Use a written list and clear labels for retained contents. Set aside personal documents, photographs, valuables and medication. Do not rely on remembering a verbal instruction when several people are involved.
3. Describe each space separately
- Living areas: larger furniture, appliances and loose contents.
- Bedrooms: beds, mattresses, wardrobes and cupboard contents.
- Kitchen: appliances and loose items; say whether fitted units are included.
- Loft: access and contents, if it is safe to inspect.
- Outbuildings: garage, shed and garden materials listed separately.
4. Take useful photographs
Show a wide view of each room, then larger items and the route to the vehicle. Avoid personal documents, other people and private information. You do not need to move heavy objects or enter an unsafe space for a photograph. The enquiry form has an optional image upload; describe additional rooms in the text.
5. Flag materials needing separate handling
Tell the provider about batteries, chemicals, paint, gas bottles and any suspected asbestos. Do not mix unknown materials into bags of general contents. Ask whether specialist items are within scope before collection.
6. Confirm the quotation and collection arrangements
Check the item list, loading arrangements, disposal costs, any VAT and payment terms. Confirm whether dismantling or cleaning is included and what will happen if the actual load differs from the quote. Share key or alarm arrangements privately with the agreed provider, not in the website form.
7. Check the provider and keep your records
Use the waste-carrier check guide before instructing collection. Keep the agreed scope, provider details and invoice. If you need completion photographs, discuss that before the work starts.
For the quote itself, use the cost comparison checklist. For an estate, read the probate-clearance guidance.
Published by Havant House Clearance, an independent enquiry and referral website. Provider availability, charges and collection scope must be confirmed directly.