Before you demolish: 5 things to check
A short list to work through before any structure comes down.
- Permit: many cities and counties may require a demolition permit.
- Utilities: gas, electric and water may need to be shut off and disconnected first.
- Asbestos: older structures may need an asbestos survey before work starts.
- Access: think about how machines and trucks will reach the structure.
- Debris plan: decide what stays, what goes and where the material ends up.
How to photograph your project for a better estimate
A few good photos can save a trip and sharpen the numbers.
- Shoot the whole structure or area from each side.
- Include the access route, gates and driveways.
- Capture anything nearby that must be protected.
- Add a close-up of materials such as concrete, brick or wood.
- Take photos in daylight when you can.
What affects the price of concrete removal
Why two concrete jobs of similar size may be priced differently.
- Area and thickness of the concrete.
- Whether it contains reinforcement.
- How easily equipment can reach it.
- How much material has to be hauled and how far.
- Whether repair or grading work follows.
Planning excavation: call 811 first
Locating underground utilities comes before any digging.
- Call 811 or submit a request before digging begins.
- Locating is free and required by law.
- Allow a few days for lines to be marked.
- Keep the markings visible until the work is done.
- We make sure this step is handled before we dig.
What to expect on demolition day
How a typical teardown day may unfold on your property.
- Equipment arrives and the work area is set up.
- The structure is brought down in a planned order.
- Debris is sorted and loaded onto trucks.
- Noise and dust may be noticeable while machines run.
- The site is cleaned up before we leave.
How to compare contractor estimates
What to look at beyond the bottom-line number.
- Confirm the contractor is insured and bonded.
- Check that hauling and cleanup are included.
- Ask what could add cost later, so there are no hidden fees.
- Find out who will actually be on site.
- Ask whether the equipment is owned or rented.
General guidance only, not legal advice. Check local requirements.
