Plumbers, handymen and tradespeople all come across plenty of scrap metal in their line of work, and we’re sure that if you’re reading this, you’re no different! Often, people who are new to the trade aren’t sure what they can and can’t do when it comes to the scrap metal left over after a job, so we thought we’d answer some of the most common questions we get.
Is it OK to sell on scrap metal from a job?
Yep, it’s perfectly fine for you to sell on scrap metal that you’ve accumulated from a job – it’s fairly common practice for plumbers, builders, handymen, and all kinds of tradespeople who end up with scrap metal on their hands.
If you’re ever in any doubt, it’s always best to ask the customer if they’re OK with you taking and disposing of the scrap – most will likely be only too happy for you to sort it out for them!
If anyone doesn’t seem too happy about it, offer to share the funds in exchange for handling the labour. Don’t mislead anyone about what you’re doing.
What kind of thing can I bring in?
We take ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal of all kinds – including just about anything that’s usually left over from a plumbing job, including:
- Copper and lead water tanks and pipes
- Cast-iron baths
- Brass taps and showers
- Stainless steel sinks
- Washing machines and dishwashers
If you’ve got something that you’re not sure about, just give us a ring on 0161 220 8058 and we’ll be able to tell you whether it’s OK to bring in or now.
There are a few things we won’t buy, though – check our list of illegal scrap metal for more info.
Do I need to strip and sort the metal?
You’re more than welcome to do it yourself, and we definitely won’t complain if you want to! But you don’t have to – you’re more than welcome to bring us a van full of mixed scrap and let us take it from there.
If you’re going elsewhere, though, it’s probably best to ring ahead and ask, as everyone will have their own rules.
Can I get cash for my scrap metal?
We can’t pay cash for scrap metal anymore, unfortunately – and that’s all down to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013. It sounds like a pain, but the Act is there to protect people who are both buying and selling from anything unscrupulous.
In fact, if anyone offers to pay you cash for your scrap, then you should run a mile. It’s against the law, and you’ll both get in trouble if you’re found out.
But you don’t have to wait for a cheque to clear – we use instant electronic payments to get you sorted.
Find out more about the rules around buying and selling in our blog on the Scrap Metal Dealers Act.
Do I have to pay tax on scrap metal sales?
Yes, you should be paying tax on any money you make from scrap metal sales. It’s usually best to set up a designated account for scrap sales, and include it all within the turnover.
Our electronic payments mean you’ll always get a receipt, which makes it nice and easy to keep track of.
Sales of scrap metal are also VATable – so keep this in mind when selling scrap. If you’re not sure what you need to do, talk to your accountant for advice.
Any other questions?
Got a question we’ve not answered here? Get in touch today and we’ll be more than happy to help you out!
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