Separating construction waste correctly
Not everything is the same: clean mineral debris (concrete, brick, tiles) is cheaper to dispose of than mixed debris with wood, plaster or plastic. Plaster and plasterboard belong separately because of the sulphate. And contaminated material — asbestos, tar-containing coverings, treated wood — is hazardous waste with its own rules. Separating cleanly saves considerably at disposal.
Skip hire: sizes and prices (guide figures 2026)
Skips typically range from 3 to 10 cubic metres. As orientation: a small skip for clean construction waste sits at a guide figure of CHF 300–700 including disposal, excl. VAT 8.1%, depending on size, material and standing time. Mixed debris costs more. If the skip stands on public ground, a municipal permit is often needed — most firms arrange that.
Pickup or skip — which is worth it
For smaller amounts, or where there is no room for a skip, picking up the collected debris is more practical. For larger renovations over several days a skip is cheaper because you fill it continuously. Rule of thumb: up to about one cubic metre pickup, above that a skip.
Asbestos and contaminated material
Material from before 1990 may contain asbestos — Eternit panels, old floor coverings, lightweight boards. Asbestos must not be disposed of with normal construction waste and requires a specialist firm with protective measures. Where suspected: do not tear it out yourself, but state it in your request so a suitable firm quotes.
Frequently asked questions
- What does a skip for construction waste cost?
- A small skip for clean construction waste sits at a guide figure of CHF 300–700 including disposal (excl. VAT 8.1%), depending on size, material and standing time. Mixed debris costs more.
- How long may the skip stand?
- On private ground, freely agreed. On public ground (road, pavement) a municipal permit is usually needed — the firm normally arranges it.
- What does not belong in construction waste?
- Plaster, wood, plastic, metal and hazardous waste (asbestos, tar-containing coverings) belong separately. Clean mineral debris is much cheaper to dispose of than mixed debris.
- How do I recognise suspected asbestos?
- Material from before 1990 is suspect: Eternit, certain floor coverings and lightweight boards. If unsure, do not remove it yourself — state it in your request; a specialist firm inspects and disposes of it correctly.
- What if the amount is larger than estimated?
- Describe the amount generously or choose one size up for the skip. Reputable firms clarify this in advance rather than charging extra on site.