Getting the Job Done with Construction Contractors

How to Plan and Execute a Demolition

16 January 2019 by Audrey Ramos

House demolitions are not an easy task as many would imagine. A lot of planning goes into ensuring that the demolition work does not pose a risk to the people demolishing, passers-by and nearby buildings. Below is a guide on how to successfully plan and execute a demolition. 

Permits. 

You will need to consult with your local council if you need a permit to demolish the building. The council may restrict the demolition of buildings that have historical significance. Council staff may also need to assess the impact that the demolition will have on the environment. 

Finding a contractor. 

Find a suitable demolitions contractor to carry out the demolitions. Do not choose a contractor merely based on how much he or she will charge. Below are a few tips to help you find a suitable contractor. 

• Go for a licenced and experienced contractor. Preferably, the contractor should be affiliated to a professional body.
• The contractor should have skilled staff experienced in operating the various demolition machines. The contractor should also have high-quality demolition equipment.
• The contractor should show sufficient understanding of the job at hand. He or she should take you through the whole demolitions process and tell you how long the demolition should take.
• The contractor should also have demolitions insurance to cover property damage or injuries resulting from the demolition. 

Safety measures. 

Below are a few safety measures to observe during demolition. 

• Inspect the building to ensure it does not contain dangerous material such as asbestos.
• Inform neighbours of your intention to tear down the building.
• Erect safety signs to warn people of ongoing demolitions.
• Have an on-site emergency plan to help you respond to any accidents or injuries that might occur during the demolition.
• All staff on site must have personal protective clothing such as safety helmets, boots and gloves during the demolition. 

Executing the demolition. 

Remove items such as furniture, home fittings and computers from the building before you commence demolitions. Before you tear down the structure, inspect it to ensure that there is no one inside. 

Clean up and waste management.

Demolitions produce a significant amount of waste. Ensure that the contract you sign with the demolitions contractor has a clause on cleaning up the demolition waste. Items such as furniture and home fittings that are in relatively good condition can be reused, donated or sold off. Consider recycling bricks, drywall, asphalt and metal. Non-recyclable material should be taken to a landfill.

The main stages of demolishing a building are securing permits, finding a contractor, ensuring safety, demolishing the building, clean up and waste management. 

Share

Search