Surplus Stuff

Depending on the item, consider online auctions, traditional auctions, online classified advertising, traditional classified advertising, second hand shops, local markets and garage sales.

Do you have family or friends that would be happy to use or store some of your surplus stuff under appropriate conditions? Make sure all parties to the arrangement understand their respective obligations and responsibilities if the goods are lost, stolen, damaged or simply wear out. If you are not entirely comfortable with a handshake or oral agreement, set out the terms in writing to minimize the risk of problems or arguments later.

Check your respective home contents insurance policies to see if the goods are in fact covered under either policy.

Storage facilities seem to be springing up all over the place. Choose one close to your new home, particularly if you are likely to be visiting it regularly. Make sure the space is clean and dry and that the facility has adequate security and fire protection measures in place.

Don't forget insurance. Items in storage are unlikely to be covered by your home contents policy. The proprietor of the storage facility may be able to offer or arrange appropriate cover.

Family and friends may be happy to take some of your surplus stuff off your hands permanently and it may be appropriate to donate other items to charity (e.g. The Smith Family or The Salvation Army).

Make sure you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully, safely and efficiently. Depending on the item, the following disposal methods may be appropriate:

• regular garbage service,
• periodical Council clean ups,
• the local tip,
• hire a mini-skip.

Check with the relevant authority or service provider to establish exactly what rubbish they will and wont take. There are strict rules about who will accept what and some items may need to be prepared first. For example, old fridges may need to have the doors removed for safety reasons and old tins of paint may need to be opened and allowed to thoroughly dry out. Pesticides and other chemicals should be disposed of only in accordance with the manufacturers instructions to avoid polluting our waterways.