6 Tips for Successfully Clearing out An Old Home

If you are restoring an old home, returning it to its former unscathed beauty, or clearing out an old estate, chances are there may be layers of rubble, not to mention filth that needs to be peeled from the surface.
Whether old furniture, or an even older overgrown yard, the tasks before you have one thing in common. 
A commitment.

A commitment to doing it right, yes, but also to make it as easy as possible on everyone involved.

Keep these things in mind and you’ll be reaching for that triumphant beverage sooner

Decide to Decide

Having a clear plan might seem like a waste of time, but it can save you a lot in the end.

Have a written list of the tasks you see. It doesn’t have to resemble War and Peace, more like a footy tips sheet, as long as a few key areas are documented.

The one thing about a written plan is you can go back and revisit items. Writing things down assists with not becoming overwhelmed and can keep you on a path if you have a tendency to go down rabbit holes.

Have a list of contacts, and suppliers you would prefer to use and those who are experts in their field like asbestos removers.

Rent a Smile

If you haven’t already, get yourself an appropriate skip bin.

It doesn’t really matter if the job is large or small. Having a skip bin means having a lot of rubble one contained area.

Remember the rules for skip bins and the material restrictions. The last thing you need to have everything in order only to find that it’s far from over.

Do yourself a favour and skip it.

Divide and Conquer

It’s a good idea to pile items into different piles.

• Keep

Anything of value and things that can be sold need to be considered carefully. Get some advice on items where you’re not sure of their value. Of course, anything that holds genuine memories can be left on this pile.

• Recycle

Old furniture can be repurposed as can discarded bicycles for days gone by. Timber goes without saying, along with any old appliance that may be used for spare parts. Recycling is a great way to save and recreate something else.

• Throw

We don’t mean the fluffy kind languishing on your couch, or the one you “say” you bought for the missus.

Some things just are just not worth keeping, donating or recycling. If you discover items that represent a danger or have served their purpose many years ago, file them under S for Skip. It's time to let it go.

Feel the freedom that throwing things out can bring.

It’s a beautiful thing, and a bit addictive.

• Donate

Donate older furniture that may need a spruce up to people who perhaps can’t afford to purchase new items. There’s a lot to be said for the recycling and reuse of old chairs, tables and unloved furniture.

Take the time and make the effort to ask about. Second-hand traders make a good living from people buying up old stuff. Donating unwanted goods gives someone the opportunity to keep their dollars in their pocket, or maybe even make a few bucks for themselves.

One Day at a Time

If your job is a big one, the best way forward is to tackle one room at a time. Clearing out an old home can seem daunting especially if this is your first time around the block.

Got some favours to call in? Perfect.

The old saying is true. Many hands make light work but remember, a friend in need is a direct path to free beer, so choose your comrades carefully.

Assistance, not hindrance.

Contingencies Happen

Everything from injuries to hazardous materials can stop you in your tracks.

Things go wrong, some of which are out of our control, but we can do our bit to lower the odds.

Mitigate the chances of serious issues by wearing protective gloves, footwear and eyewear.

Dust an allergens can have a detrimental effect on those who suffer, as does overdoing it.

Knowing your limits in terms of physical activity will also help you stay healthier for longer.

Keep hydrated and leave the beers for the end of the day.

If you suspect there may be asbestos in the home, contact a professional. While this may delay you, there are clear reasons why you should never dance with the devil.

If this is a personal clear-out following a bereavement, then realise things may take a bit longer.

Give yourself a break. Unless you have financial reasons for doing this superfast, another day or two might make a big difference to your overall experience.

You Are Not Alone

While you might be tempted to throw everything on the footpath for removal in days to come, you could be creating a headache you don’t need.

All you’ll get are some memorable words from the local council and some serious side-eye from unimpressed neighbours.

On the upside, any local vermin, and pussycats sleeping rough will love you for creating a ready-made sanctuary. "Here kitty-kitty-kitty".

Enjoy industry experience, expert advice and professional service by having the best in the business on your side.

Contact us today for more info and the best skip for your clear out.

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