Wheelie bin theft is more common than you might think, and if your bin goes missing, there are clear steps you should follow and legal rights you can exercise. Whether a neighbour has taken it by mistake or it has been deliberately stolen, acting quickly can resolve the issue.
What to do if your bin is lost or stolen
The first step is to ask around. It is possible that someone has taken your bin in by mistake, and they will likely want to return it. Also, check hedges or hidden areas in case it has blown away.
If you still cannot find it and suspect theft, you can report it to the police via the 101 non-emergency number or their website, but only if the bin is your own personal property. You should then receive a crime number while you wait for an outcome.
If the bin belongs to your local council, you must contact them instead. The experts at WheelieBins.co.uk said: "Depending on where you are, you may have to pay for a replacement wheelie. However, if your bin has disappeared and it emerges that the council has damaged it during collection, you shouldn’t have to pay."
How to stop your wheelie bin from being stolen
To prevent your bin from being stolen, avoid putting it out too early. If it is left on the street overnight or all day, it could become a target for opportunistic thieves. Similarly, bring it back into your garden quickly after it has been emptied.
The experts added: "If you’re not going to be at home, ask a trusted neighbour to take your bin in for you." Labelling your bin clearly with your house number can also help reduce the chances of it getting lost by accident, and adding bright colours or stickers may deter thieves.
Keep your bin out of sight on your property, such as in your back garden or behind a locked gate, if possible. You could also put a lock on your bin if you are worried about its contents, but remember to unlock it on collection day.
