EWC Codes In Plain English: What They Are And Why They Matter
EWC (European Waste Catalogue), also called List of Waste (LoW), codes are the standard way to describe waste across the UK. Each waste stream has a six‑digit code. For construction and demolition (C&D), most codes begin with 17.
How codes work: chapter (17), sub‑chapter (01), and specific waste (07). Example: 17 01 07 = mixtures of concrete, bricks, tiles and ceramics. A star (*) marks hazardous entries. Using the right code supports legal compliance, accurate segregation, fair pricing and higher recycling. See our wider waste management services to understand how correct coding boosts recovery.
Good coding also supports the waste hierarchy: prevent, reuse, recycle before disposal. For a refresher, read what is the waste hierarchy. Not sure which code to use? A R Richards can advise at booking.
How To Pick The Right Construction Waste Code: A Quick Step‑By‑Step
- Describe the waste and how it arose. Is it demolition rubble, strip‑out timber, soils, packaging or staff waste? Note the material and its source (site arisings, packaging, office/welfare).
- Check if it could be hazardous. Look for solvents in paints/adhesives, resin tins, aerosols, treated timber, fluorescent tubes, batteries or asbestos. If a material has both hazardous and non‑hazardous options, it is a mirror entry and needs assessment. Need help? See our hazardous waste management page.
- Select the most specific code. Use chapter 17 for site arisings, 15 for packaging, and 20 for staff welfare/office waste. Confirm with your carrier and arrange collection via waste collection.
Quick examples: demolition rubble 17 01 07; clean wood 17 02 01; plastic wrap 15 01 02; solvent‑based paint wastes 08 01 11* (or 20 01 27* from municipal/office areas where appropriate).
Waste Transfer Notes Made Easy
Use a Waste Transfer Note (WTN) for every movement of non‑hazardous controlled waste. Hazardous waste uses a consignment note instead.
A WTN must include:
- Accurate description of the waste and the correct EWC code
- Producer’s SIC code (2007)
- Quantity or weight and how it is contained (e.g. 1 × 8‑yard skip)
- Place, date and time of transfer
- Carrier’s name, address and registration number
- Receiving site name, address and permit number
- Confirmation you have applied the waste hierarchy
- Signatures from both parties (or approved digital sign‑off)
Example: “Mixed C&D waste, 17 09 04, 1 × 8‑yard skip (approx. 1.2t), Shop refit, 12/06/2026 10:30, Carrier CBDU123456, Destination permit ABC/123.” Download our editable WTN and label pack from documents downloads.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
Duty Of Care: The Legal Basics For SMEs
- Store waste securely, in suitable containers, to prevent spills, leaks and litter.
- Label clearly with the correct EWC code and keep streams separate to improve recycling and control costs.
- Only pass waste to a registered carrier and send it to a permitted site.
- Keep Waste Transfer Notes for 2 years and hazardous consignment notes for 3 years.
- Audit your paperwork. A R Richards is fully accredited and can supply copies on request.
Refurb Job Cheat Sheet: Common Wastes And The Right EWC Codes
- Concrete 17 01 01; Bricks 17 01 02; Tiles/Ceramics 17 01 03; Mixed concrete, bricks, tiles and ceramics 17 01 07.
- Wood 17 02 01 (keep clean wood separate where possible). See our wood recycling services.
- Metals: Iron/steel 17 04 05; other metals under 17 04 xx (e.g. aluminium 17 04 02, copper 17 04 01).
- Soil and stones 17 05 04; Plasterboard/gypsum 17 08 02 (keep separate).
- Insulation (non‑hazardous) 17 06 04; Cables 17 04 11.
- Mixed C&D 17 09 04 (only when genuinely mixed and non‑hazardous).
- Packaging: Paper/card 15 01 01; Plastic 15 01 02; Metal 15 01 04; Wood 15 01 03.
- Welfare/office: 20 03 01 mixed municipal (from staff areas only).
- Hazardous: Asbestos 17 06 05*; Paints/adhesives with dangerous substances 08 01 11* (or 20 01 27* from municipal/office areas); Lead batteries 16 06 01*; Fluorescent tubes 20 01 21*.
Never label site arisings as 20 03 01. It is for municipal waste, not construction waste from site works.
Pick The Right Container: Skips, RoRos And Euro Bins
- 6–8 yard skips: heavy rubble, concrete, bricks, soil (weight‑limited; do not overload).
- 10–12 yard skips: lighter, bulkier waste (timber, packaging).
- 15–40 yard RoRos: high volumes from major projects; ideal for segregated streams.
- Dedicated wood and plasterboard containers reduce contamination and cost.
- Euro bins (240L–1100L) suit staff and packaging areas for paper/card, plastics and cans. See euro wheelie bins.
England’s Simpler Recycling rules reward on‑site segregation with better recovery and lower fees. For flexible containers and fast deliveries, book skip hire.
Real‑World Refurb Scenarios: How The Codes And Notes Work On Site
Shop fit‑out, Shrewsbury: One 8‑yard skip for 17 09 04. Separate cages for metals (17 04 xx) and bins for packaging (15 01 xx). A WTN is completed for each uplift with codes, quantities and signatures.
Office refresh, Telford: Ceiling tiles 17 01 03; carpets 20 01 11; WEEE separated as 20 01 36 or 20 01 35* if hazardous (consignment required). WTNs cover non‑hazardous movements; hazardous items use consignment notes.
Small landlord refurb: A 6–8 yard skip for mixed C&D, with plasterboard kept out as 17 08 02. Record actual or estimated weights on each WTN and check the carrier registration and destination permit.
This image was generated with AI and may not always represent the product or service exactly.
Avoid Costly Mistakes: Quick Wins For Compliance And Cost Control
- Keep plasterboard out of general waste; use a dedicated container.
- Do not use 20 03 01 for site arisings—use chapter 17 codes.
- Keep liquids, aerosols and paints out of general skips; use correct hazardous routes.
- List contents accurately with the right EWC code and sensible weight estimates.
- Verify your carrier’s registration and the receiving site’s permit before collection.
- Retain WTNs for 2 years and hazardous notes for 3 years.
- Avoid overfilling and ensure safe access for collection.
Templates And Tools You Can Use Today
Grab our editable WTN and container signage pack from documents downloads. Use our one‑page EWC quick reference to label skips and bins clearly on site.
Want a fast code check before booking? Call or email the team. We’ll confirm the right code and container, and schedule collections that keep your project compliant and tidy.
Why Choose A R Richards: Total Waste And Materials, One Reliable Partner
We are a family‑run business with 40+ years of practical experience. One call covers skips, Euro bins, hazardous handling, recycling, plant hire and building materials. Our modern fleet and multiple depots provide fast local service across the Midlands.
We focus on circular outcomes too—our crushing and screening produce quality materials for reuse. For straightforward, dependable support from planning to paperwork, speak to A R Richards today.
FAQs
Do I Need A Waste Transfer Note For Every Load?
Yes. Every non‑hazardous transfer requires a WTN. Hazardous waste needs a consignment note instead.
What Is The EWC Code For Mixed Construction Waste?
Usually 17 09 04 when it is genuinely mixed and non‑hazardous. Segregate where possible to cut costs and improve recycling.
How Long Should I Keep My Waste Paperwork?
Keep Waste Transfer Notes for 2 years and hazardous consignment notes for 3 years. Store them so they are easy to retrieve.
Which Chapter Should I Use For Packaging And Welfare Waste?
Use chapter 15 for packaging (15 01 xx) and chapter 20 for staff welfare or office waste. Keep site arisings in chapter 17.
How Do I Know If A Waste Is Hazardous?
Check for dangerous substances, hazard labels or mirror entries. If unsure, ask our team for guidance before you move the waste.
What Size Skip Should I Choose For Rubble?
Pick a 6–8 yard skip for heavy rubble and soil. Larger skips suit light, bulky materials to avoid overloading on weight.
