Call: 020 7780 3070 (Mon – Fri 8:30am – 5pm) Email: customerservices@thch.org.uk
Creating safe and tidy spaces for all
Together with our residents, we want to create places people are proud to call home. However, when there are cases of fly tipping, it results in creating untidy and unsafe spaces, that ultimately cost our residents.
Fly-tipping is when non-household rubbish like building materials, old clothes or bulky items like furniture and electrical goods are dumped in the wrong place. This includes spaces like communal areas or near bins.
On this page, you’ll find information on how you can dispose of your bulky and non-household waste, as well as advice on what to do if you spot someone fly tipping.
If you do have an general queries or concerns around fly tipping, our customer service team will be happy to assist.
Remember, fly-tipping is a criminal offence
Fly tippers can be prosecuted as it’s a serious health hazard and is bad for our environment. It can cause unpleasant smells and attract pests. Additionally, it’s a fire hazard. Items left in communal areas can block escape routes, plus can help a fire to spread quicker. Be a good neighbour and help to keep our areas clear and safe by disposing of your waste properly.
“All household occupiers are under a legal duty to ensure that household waste is property disposed of under section 34 of the Environmental Act 1990”.
Free bulk waste collections
Bulky items like fridges, sofas, and televisions, can be collected by Tower Hamlets Council for free. Each household can arrange two free collections per year, and up to five items can be taken away per collection.
All items must be able to be safely handled by two people and should be less than two metres in length. Please also wrap glass items for safe transportation.
Reuse and Recycling Centre
A wide range of items, including bulky waste, can be disposed of at the Tower Hamlets Reuse and Recycling Centre. The Centre is on Yabsley Street, where staff can help you with carrying any larger items.
Find further details about how to access the centre, and what items are accepted, by visiting the council website below.
Other ways to dispose of bulky items
Take Back Schemes
Many stores offer a 'Take Back Scheme'. For example, if you buy a new washing machine, the company can take away the old one when they deliver your new one. This is often free of charge.
Idea Stores
Smaller items such as kettles, toasters, hairdryers, irons, and chargers can be recycled at Idea Stores. Find further guidance on this here .
Clothes banks
There are lots of ways to dispose of unwanted clothes, like charity shops and clothes banks. We have recycling clothes bank in Norton House, Trahorn Close, and Chapman Street. Find our more here.
Reporting fly tipping
If you spot someone fly tipping, you should report it to the council in the first instance. Don’t attempt to remove the rubbish yourself in case there are hidden sharp or dangerous items.
It's helpful to try to work out what the waste consists of and how much there is, and to take note of the day, date, time, and exact location.
If you see someone fly-tipping, take note of how many people are involved and what they look like, what has been tipped - how much and what it looks like, details of any vehicles involved including make, colour and registration number if possible.
Be very careful. Remember that fly tippers are doing something illegal and do not want to be caught – they are unlikely to welcome people observing them. Do not approach them or put your own safety at risk.