Trash contracts auto-renew and accumulate surcharges. Because the cost is per property, it's easy to compare: cost per unit per month across your own properties is the first benchmark.
The check
- Get the contract: container sizes, pickups per week, term and auto-renewal notice window.
- From the invoices, total monthly cost and divide by units.
- List every surcharge line and when it first appeared.
- Ask the site team whether containers are full at pickup. Half-empty containers mean you can cut frequency.
Rebidding
- Diary the renewal notice deadline; many contracts need written notice 60–90 days before term end.
- Get at least two competing quotes for the same service level.
- If residents aren't billed a flat trash fee and leases allow it, consider adding one at renewal.