Most people use "house clearance" as a catch-all, but the term covers half a dozen distinct services with different timelines, requirements, and considerations. This guide explains each type so you can identify what you actually need — and ask the right questions when you request a quote.
Full house clearance
A whole-property clear-out — usually a house that's being sold, inherited or refurbished. Every room is emptied, including loft, garage, shed and garden. The team is typically 2–4 people and most properties are completed in a single day. Items are sorted for reuse, donation, recycling and disposal in that order. See our full house clearance service.
Probate house clearance
Required when a property passes through an estate after a death. A sensitive, discreet approach is essential, and the work is often coordinated with solicitors and executors. Itemised reports are available on request, and the timeline may be dictated by the grant of probate. See our probate clearance service and the longer probate clearance guide for Dorset.
End-of-tenancy clearance
A tenant has left belongings behind, or a landlord needs a full clear before reletting. Speed is usually the priority — same-day and next-day slots are available. A broom-clean finish and photographic proof of completion are helpful if there's a deposit dispute. See our end-of-tenancy clearance service.
Single-room or partial clearance
Not all clearances are whole houses. It might be a loft, garage, shed, spare room, or a single item such as a sofa and a wardrobe. These are charged at lower minimum rates and are useful for people decluttering incrementally rather than all at once.
Garage and workshop clearance
Garages accumulate tools, chemicals, old vehicles, tyres and general workshop equipment. Some items — old paint, solvents and tyres — have specific disposal requirements, so they're handled separately. See our garage clearance guide.
Garden clearance
Garden furniture, shed contents, green waste (prunings, soil, pots), old lawnmowers and fencing. Often requested alongside a house clearance, or independently after a sale. See our garden clearance guide.
What to expect from any house clearance
- Free, fixed-price quote — no hourly surprises
- £2m public liability insurance
- Waste Transfer Note on completion
- Maximum eco-friendly processing — local charities and reuse hubs first
If you're not sure which type applies to your situation, describe what you need on the quote form and we'll advise — quotes are free and there's no obligation.