Trash removal/recycling for small, commercial apartment building

[Mark OGara]

I am looking for ideas on how to handle refuse at a small, commercial complex.  Right now we pay a monthly fee to have the garbage picked up on a weekly basis.  We use a local disposal service for a 20 unit apartment complex.  Often we will be charged additional fees when the refuse exceeds the capacity of the containers.  A lot of the refuse is cardboard, bottles, cans and plastics.  Adding recycling bins is an additional monthly cost for the disposal service.  Does anyone have any suggestions for a recycling solution for a 20 unit apartment building in Pittsburgh PA?  

[Deanna McCormick]

In MN recycling cost is added to water bill, some don't realize this, so check to make sure its not something your already paying for.

I agree trash is a major expense, we had our caretaker responsible for overflow and box breakdown. We sent reminders on trash but was always a headache at move out's furniture was huge issue, 

Check what your monthly fee's add up to and see if a larger container would be a better option. Shop other trash haulers for rates. 

Nothing more unsightly than trash clutter outside.  If we found trash not in container and could trace back to apartment, by checking trash for a letter with address we would fine the tenant for not disposing of property.