Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register or sign up to use the service?
No, the service is free and there is no need to register or sign up.
Is this service available in all areas of the borough?
Yes, the service will be rolled out across the whole borough.
Will batteries and small electrical items be collected on the same day as my bin?
Yes. Batteries and small electrical items will be collected on your usual collection day. Please put the batteries in a bag, tied, alongside your bin for collection.
Do I need a separate collection container or sticker?
No separate container or sticker is required.
Is there a limit to how many bags I can put out each week?
We will collect one bag per week per household.
Can I recycle light bulbs in this service?
No, light bulbs cannot be recycled through this service. Some household light bulbs, such as energy-saving compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), contain hazardous materials including mercury and require specialist recycling. Please take light bulbs to your local household waste recycling centre, where they can be disposed of safely and recycled correctly.
Can I leave items out if it is raining or bad weather?
Yes. Please still place items out as normal on your collection day. We recommend tying your bag tightly to help protect items from getting wet.
Can I mix batteries and small electrical items in the same bag?
No. Batteries and small electrical items should be kept separate and placed in different bags for safe handling.
Can I use any type of bag, including carrier bags or food bags?
Yes. Any strong bag can be used, as long as it is tied securely. Carrier bags are ideal.
Can I recycle items that still contain batteries I can’t access?
Yes. If the battery cannot be safely removed, the whole item can be recycled as a small electrical item, as long as it is smaller than a 4-slice toaster in size. Please place it in a separate bag for collection.
What happens to the batteries and electrical items after they are collected?
They are taken to specialist recycling facilities where materials such as metals and plastics are recovered and reused. Batteries are treated separately to ensure they are handled safely.
What if I cannot wait for the weekly collection?
If you need to dispose of items sooner than your bin collection date, you can take them to your local Household Waste Recycling Centre or use designated battery recycling points in supermarkets and participating shops.
Will items be left behind if they are not accepted?
Yes, if an item is not accepted as part of the service, it will be left behind.
Who do I contact if I have a problem with the service?
If you have any questions or problems with the service, you can contact North Warwickshire Borough Council:
Telephone: 01827 715341
Email: customerservices@northwarks.gov.uk