Service standards

Our recycling and rubbish collection services have a major impact, making Lewisham a great place to live - but we need your support and commitment, so our service standards outline what you can expect from us as well as what we need from you.

Kerbside collections

• put your bins out before 6am on collection day at the edge of your property (crews can’t enter your property unless you’re on an assisted collection)
• don’t leave bins in the street after collection
• keep bin lids closed to avoid spills and help crews work safely
• use each bin for the correct waste only - no black bags, food waste or general rubbish in recycling bins
• if your recycling bin is full, put extra recycling in clear bags for collection
• make sure your recycling is clean and dry (especially paper and card)
• rinse containers such as jars and bottles before recycling
• DIY waste, garden waste and food waste cannot go in a general waste or non-recyclable bin
• no packaging or liquids in food waste bins
• put food waste in clear plastic bags (for example bread bags) - you don’t need biodegradable bags
• report missed collections after 2pm and within 48 hours
• if bins are damaged, misused, lost or stolen, tell us
• park considerately on collection days so crews can access your street

If you live in a flat or have communal bins

• put bins out before 6am or use the agreed communal bin location
• keep bin lids closed and use the correct bins - no black bags, food waste or general rubbish in recycling bins
• make sure recycling is clean and dry - rinse items like jars thoroughly
• DIY waste and garden waste cannot go in general waste bins
• no packaging or liquids in food waste
• report missed collections after 2pm and within 48 hours
• park considerately on collection days
• if bins are damaged, misused, lost or stolen, tell your landlord or managing agent so they can contact us
• keep areas around communal bins clear so crews can collect them
• flatten cardboard boxes and clean all items before recycling

Thanks for helping us recycle more and keep our borough clean and tidy.

Email: recycle@lewisham.gov.uk for more recycling advice.