How Much Is a House Clearance

The cost of a house clearance in the UK typically ranges from £300 to £1,500 or more, depending on the size of the property, the volume and type of items being removed, and how much labour or specialist handling is required. Whether you are clearing a property after a bereavement, preparing a home for sale, or simply decluttering, it is important to understand what factors influence the cost and how to get the best value for your circumstances.

House clearance involves removing unwanted items, furniture, appliances and rubbish from a property, often under tight timelines. It can be a straightforward task in some cases, but more complex clearances may involve handling hazardous materials, accessing difficult spaces or separating valuable goods for resale or donation.

What Affects the Cost of a House Clearance?

The size of the property is a key factor. Clearing a one-bedroom flat may cost between £300 and £600, while a three-bedroom house could range from £800 to £1,500. Larger homes, particularly those with lofts, garages, outbuildings or heavy items, can exceed £2,000. Prices rise with the amount of work required, the type of waste, and whether any items need to be dismantled or moved down stairs.

The contents also make a difference. Standard household furniture and bric-a-brac are easy to clear, but hazardous waste such as paint, asbestos, fridges or freezers must be handled according to environmental regulations, often at extra cost. Some clearance firms offset fees by reselling or donating valuable goods, so homes with antiques, collectibles or working electronics may qualify for a reduced price.

Access and location are also significant. A property with easy driveway access and no parking restrictions is quicker to clear than one in a busy urban street, top-floor flat or remote rural area. The distance to recycling or disposal centres can also influence the final bill, especially if multiple vehicle loads are required.

What’s Included in a House Clearance?

A full house clearance generally includes the removal of all unwanted items from the property, including furniture, white goods, carpets, curtains, and general rubbish. Some companies offer a basic service where everything is removed for disposal, while others sort items for recycling, donation or resale. They may also provide cleaning services, garden clearance or professional valuation of antiques if requested.

Before work begins, most reputable companies will carry out an assessment or request photos to estimate the cost. Some offer fixed quotes while others charge based on time and volume. Be sure to check whether VAT is included and whether any additional fees may apply for items such as mattresses or large appliances.

How Long Does a Clearance Take?

A small flat can be cleared in a few hours, while a larger house may take a full day or more. Most professional clearance firms aim to complete the job in one visit using a team of two to four people and a large van or lorry. Time estimates can vary depending on how much needs to be cleared, how organised the property is, and whether the contents need sorting beforehand.

It is usually faster if you are able to separate anything you wish to keep and leave the rest for clearance. Properties that are hoarded, cluttered or in poor condition can take much longer and may require specialist services.

Do You Need a Licence for House Clearance?

While you do not need a licence to hire someone, the clearance company must be properly licensed to transport and dispose of waste under UK environmental law. Reputable companies are registered with the Environment Agency and follow strict disposal guidelines. Always ask for their waste carrier licence number and check it if in doubt.

If you use an unlicensed operator and they dispose of waste illegally, you could be fined as the householder. Using a fully insured, accredited clearance firm is essential for peace of mind and legal compliance.

Are There Cheaper or Free Options?

If you have more time and fewer items, you may be able to handle the clearance yourself. Hiring a skip or making trips to the local recycling centre can reduce costs, though you’ll still pay for disposal and transport. Charities may collect usable furniture for free, particularly items with fire safety labels. However, they will not take broken or dirty items, and you’ll still need to clear the rest.

Some local authorities offer bulky waste collection, but this service is often limited to a few items and booked well in advance. For full house clearances, a professional service is usually the most efficient solution.

Conclusion

The cost of a house clearance in the UK varies depending on property size, volume of contents, and any special requirements such as hazardous waste disposal. Prices generally range from £300 to £1,500 or more, but can be reduced where valuable items offset the cost. To ensure you receive a fair quote and responsible service, always choose a licensed clearance provider and ask for a breakdown of costs before work begins.