Building demolition is the process of destroying, disassembling, or knocking down building structures and the materials that were used to build them.

Buildings are often demolished because they have outlived their lifespan, their structural integrity has been compromised, or some areas of the structure need to be renovated. Moreover, some property owners may want to sell the estate as a vacant lot.

If a structure is not demolished properly, it could present a serious threat. Therefore, careful planning is essential to guarantee that building demolitions are carried out safely.

Cost of House Demolition in Brisbane

In Brisbane, the cost to demolish a house can range between $12,000 and $40,000, with various factors affecting this figure. On a per-square-meter basis, the average cost is around $40 to $85.

Cost of Asbestos Removal

The cost of asbestos removal is around $2500, adding to the total cost of demolition. However, this can vary depending on the type of asbestos, quantity, where it’s located, and the cost of local disposal.

Excavation Cost

If there’s demolition work, excavation is also needed to remove the debris from the site. On average, a professional excavation service in Brisbane will cost around $500 to $2,000 while the hourly rate ranges between $70 and $150 per hour.

Tree Removal

Trees that get in the way of the demolition process must be cleared beforehand. You might need the assistance of professional tree services with this and expect to pay around $882.

Other Types of Demolition Jobs and Their Costs

For an interior demolition, it will cost an average of $1,500 for a non-load-bearing wall while a load-bearing wall has an average cost of $4,500. Interior demolition usually involves the removal of interior walls, ceilings, and flooring, among others.

For a garage demolition, it can cost you around $2,000 for a detached structure. However, it can go up to more than $4,000, considering other factors like excavations, the size of the garage, and asbestos removal.

Factors that Can Affect the Cost of House Demolition

Demolishing a house or any other type of property is not an easy task and there are many significant aspects to take into account. The following factors may have an impact on how much it will cost to demolish a house.

1. Scale of the Demolition Job

The larger the structure that needs to be demolished, the more difficult the job will be. The building’s height and width will also directly affect the demolition method that will be used.

Meanwhile, it is crucial to keep the debris under control and limit the project’s impact on the nearby structures. While opting for the services of demolition experts is a wise decision, their rates will depend on how well-established they are in the industry.

2. Presence of Hazardous Materials

If the building has hazardous materials like asbestos, that must be taken into account when estimating the cost. Before the project begins, proper asbestos removal must be completed and this can only be done by skilled professionals.

With the presence of potentially hazardous elements, the demolition job becomes more difficult. The cost of expert services required to handle the removal of such elements will also add up to the final cost of the house demolition.

3. Type of Material Used

Demolition cost will depend on the type of material used in the structure. Often, wooden materials are easy to destroy and hence, will be cheaper compared to steel or concrete structures, which are more difficult to demolish.

4. Recyclable Materials

Some of the materials may need to be salvaged so they can be donated or possibly used for future construction projects. With that, specialized equipment is needed to preserve the quality of these salvageable materials, and this will incur additional costs.

5. Fees Associated with Permits

Aside from the cost of the demolition job itself, getting the necessary permits will also come at cost. In other words, you will pay a certain amount for processing, inspection, and permit fees, which can add up to the project’s total cost.

6. Type of Demolition to be Implemented

The demolition type is a significant factor that can affect the cost. There are two main types of demolition: total and partial. Total demolition entails tearing down the entire structure while partial demolition involves removing only some parts of the structure.

Partial demolition requires less work and equipment to complete the job. Thus it is less expensive as compared to total demolition.

7. Disposal of Debris

Getting rid of the debris and proper cleanup should always be viewed as part of the demolition process. To make sure the area is clear and ready for construction, disposal of the debris is needed and this can influence the demolition cost too.

8. Site Accessibility

The accessibility of your site to bring the needed demolition equipment may have an impact on the overall cost. If the house is located in a challenging area, it might increase the cost of transporting the equipment and would be more difficult to remove the waste.

9. Tree Clearing

In some cases, there are trees or shrubs that might get in the way of demolition. With this, the area must be clear from any of these obstructions and thus, you might need the services of some local arborists to take care of these before the demolition can begin.

Ways to Reduce the Demolition Cost

While demolishing a house can be a costly process, there are a number of ways that can help you reduce the costs. Check out the following tips. 

1. Ask for Multiple Quotes

Make sure the quote you receive for the work is thorough and that all potential budget-busters, such as asbestos and tree removal, have been taken into account. This is one strategy to minimize unexpected costs in the future.

2. Recycle or Sell Salvaged Materials

You might be able to sell or reuse salvaged materials from the demolition. These may include concrete, wood, or fixtures, among others.

3. Minimize the Cost of Waste Disposal

By finding charities or other contractors who are interested in debris and materials that can still be used. In this way, you may be able to lower the cost of waste disposal as well as the transport charges needed to get rid of the demolition rubble.

4. Employ the Same Contractor to Do the Excavation Work

Try to employ the same contractor who is handling the demolition work to do the excavation work necessary to clear the site. This could save you money as contractors might charge less if they are doing multiple projects for the same client.

Overview of the Demolition Process 

To ensure that the whole process is carried out properly and safely, demolition of a structure should be done in accordance with a set procedure. Below is an overview of the demolition process.

1. Surveying

In surveying, the demolition crew will study the various aspects of the structure as well as its surroundings. There are two types of surveying that will be conducted to evaluate each aspect of the property for potential hazards: building and structural surveying.

The demolition team must carefully inspect the area to find any hazardous materials and structural flaws before any work can be done. The assessment will then be utilized to decide which methods to employ for a safe and effective property demolition.

1. Building Surveying

This type of surveying will include the following aspects:

• The types of materials used in the construction of the building
• Previous usage
• The state of the drainage system and underlying issues with flooding, erosion, and water pollution.
• The presence of dangerous materials
• Shared utilities and facilities
• Associated traffic and vehicular conditions
• The effects of traffic movements, noise, dust, vibration, and other factors on the neighborhood.

2. Structural Surveying

In structural surveying, the following processes will be carried out:

• Construction method
• The underlying conditions of basements and underground tanks
• The skeletal framework used in the design
• The condition of the structure

2. Removal of Hazardous Materials

After identifying the presence of hazardous materials, their removal may require additional time and money to the demolition process. For instance, asbestos must be completely removed by specialists in this field before the demolition begins.

The existence of wastewater as a result from inadequate drainage will be taken care of as well. In this phase, any chemicals or flammable materials are also removed.

3. Presentation of the Demolition Plan 

The demolition plan should be presented in great detail. It should include the specifics about which demolition methods to use in different parts of the building and the order in which they should be done.

The way this plan is crafted is essential in deciding which team should be hired. The safety precautions must be mentioned also. Whether it is a residential or commercial demolition project, it can be quite dangerous if not carried out with a thorough plan. 

A detailed demolition plan will illustrate the various procedures involved such as the following:

• The location of the structure that will be demolished.
• The distances between the building that will be torn down and any nearby streets, buildings, and other structures.
• The structural support of the building.
• A plan outlining the building’s demolition process, the precise order in which structural parts are to be demolished, and the chosen demolition method.
• An outline of all safety precautions for the protection of the public such as hoardings, covered walkways, catch platforms, catch fans, scaffolding, protective screens, and safety nets, for the public’s protection.
• How to handle the building debris from demolition.
• The time required to finish the demolition procedure.

4. Obtain the Required Demolition Permits

Obtaining the necessary permits to undertake a demolition project of a certain scale is a part of the preliminary planning phase. Industry experts are already familiar with this procedure and can give a precise schedule for when the project may start.

Take note that permit delays are a common problem for various projects. Therefore, industry knowledge is essential in this part of the process.

When applying for a demolition permit, you’ll need to submit several documents as well as photographs. Here’s a checklist of the common documents needed.

• Site diagrams showing the structures that will be demolished
• Pictures of the building and its surroundings
• Official copy of Land Title
• Licensed demolition contractor’s name, registration number, and insurance information
• Copy of their public liability insurance policy
• Description of demolition
• Protection plans for nearby properties
• How to dispose of waste

5. Actual Demolition

It is time to put the plan into action once all the preliminary planning has been completed and permits have been secured. The actual demolition will be the shortest part of the entire process.

In the demolition plan discussed previously, the best demolition method was determined. Perhaps a few of the methods will be combined. The demolition crew will be ready with the necessary equipment to complete the task successfully.

6. Disposal of Demolition Waste

A significant amount of the debris from demolition gets recycled. Industry experts know how to transport and remove those materials so they may be salvaged.

Appropriate machinery will be used to load and dispose of the rubble. Take note that this step can be the longest portion of the demolition process as well.

Total vs Partial Demolition

Homeowners may decide to start from scratch and construct a new home from the ground up or they may decide to simply remove and renovate a certain portion of an existing home. With this, they must choose between total and partial demolition.

1. Partial Demolition

This kind of demolition may be required in cases where a homeowner simply wants to take down a portion of their house. For instance, you might wish to take down a wall or the interior of a building without compromising the home’s structural integrity.

It’s an ideal choice for homeowners who want to demolish some of their house but are constrained by local regulations to keep the exterior of the structure intact. This type of demolition typically requires more labor and doesn’t rely heavily on equipment.

2. Total Demolition

On the other hand, total demolition refers to the removal of an entire building or structure. This kind of demolition typically requires large equipment, such as excavators and dump trucks, due to the nature of the job involved.

This kind of work is usually charged by the hour, and the cost will cover the equipment and labor required for the day. Your chosen contractor may also need to do the planning and site assessments in advance.

Different Methods of Demolition

There are various demolition techniques available in order to remove old or unsafe structures and make room for new ones. Here’s a look at some of these methods and where each is most applicable.

1. Non-Explosive Method

It refers to the demolition of a building or structure by machinery without the use of explosives. The following equipment is used for this type of demolition:

1. Sledge Hammer

A sledge hammer is made to displace a lot of force over a condensed area. That’s why it is commonly used for the demolition of tiny walls or single columns.

2. Excavators and Bulldozers

These are large equipment that are used to destroy small buildings. They are employed for tasks like excavation or transferring rubble to trucks.

3. Wrecking Balls

If the building to be demolished is taller than 6 or 7 stories, bulldozers and excavators cannot be used to do the job. In such situations, demolition work is carried out using a crane with wrecking balls. 

4. High Reach Excavators

When it’s impossible to demolish a tall building using an explosion, high reach excavators are used. This kind of machine can demolish structures with a height of up to 300 feet.

2. Implosion Method

In the implosion method, explosives are used to demolish a building or structure. The aim here is to tear down a building by destroying its supports such as the columns, beams, and slabs.

The column will then collapse along with the structure once the explosives are detonated. There are two types of implosion depending on how the structure collapses.

1. Falling Like a Tree

This is the most common kind of implosion used in demolition jobs. Here, the building is made to collapse sideways like a tree. This kind of implosion method is recommended when there’s a space besides the building.

2. Falling into its Own Footprint

This method of demolition is used when there are no free spaces around and it is necessary to protect the building’s surrounding structure. Here, the explosives are placed beneath the floor below the middle part of the building.

Reasons Why a House Needs to Be Demolished

Knocking down a structure is a decision that should be properly thought out. But in some instances, it is unquestionably the right thing to do. Here are some common reasons why a house needs to be demolished.

1. Weak Foundation

This is a condition when signs show up like uneven flooring and cracks in the inside and exterior of walls. The land beneath the property may be sinking or shifting, which might result in a weak foundation. 

It’s also possible that the foundation’s components have deteriorated to the point that the house is not properly held together. The house would need to be demolished because such a situation is already unsafe.

2. Old Structure

Older homes may need a lot of upkeep, and the need for expensive repairs may become unjustifiable. While the building may appear to be in good condition from the outside, there could be underlying issues such as plumbing and ventilation problems.

Older structures tend to have weak infrastructures, therefore demolishing them will be less expensive than maintaining them. Knocking down the house and building a new one can be a less expensive option for older homes than renovating them.

3. Increase the Property’s Value

The decision to renovate or expand a property in order to increase its market value can also be a reason to demolish a house. Existing structures must then be removed in order to make place for any property expansion.

4. To Sell as Vacant Lot

It is much easier to sell a vacant lot than an occupied one, just as an outdated building will have difficulty doing so. It offers buyers a clean space on which to build the house of their dreams.

Before listing the property for sale, it can make sense to demolish the house on the lot if it is in poor shape. There is a greater likelihood that your land would be significantly more profitable without the existing house on it.

5. Contains Hazardous Materials or Pests

When hazardous chemicals like asbestos, mercury, or lead are found inside a house, partial demolition may be necessary. To guarantee that these chemicals are properly disposed of, hiring professionals in this field may be needed.

Old and abandoned buildings are also prone to developing rat and termite infestations, requiring the assistance of an exterminator. However, if the house is beyond repair from these harmful chemicals and pests, demolition can be the best option.

6. Adherence to New Building Codes

Local governments may have new building codes, which force homeowners to make costly renovations. Property owners may decide to demolish their home and build a new one that complies with these new requirements instead of renovating their old house.

Top Demolition Services in Brisbane

Here are the top demolition services in Brisbane that can take the weight off your shoulders for your demolition needs. Simply contact them to avail of their services.

1. Logan City Demolitions

Logan City Demolitions is a family-run deconstruction company that specializes in all facets of demolition, asbestos removal, soil remediation, home removal, and recycling/salvaging. They offer cost-effective services with the highest level of quality.

WEBSITE:	https://logancitydemolitions.com.au/
ADDRESS:	48-50 Cairns St, Loganholme QLD 4129, Australia
CONTACT INFO:	+61 7 3800 1445, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:	Monday – Friday: 8AM-4PM

2. B E Plant Hire

From start to finish, B E Plant Hire offers a precisely supervised demolition service. They have a group of highly qualified specialists that can help with everything from getting a demolition permit, and plumbing/sewerage cap, among others.

WEBSITE:	https://beplanthire.com.au/
ADDRESS:	26 Smith St, Capalaba QLD 4157, Australia
CONTACT INFO:	+61 7 3245 1501, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:	Monday – Saturday: 6AM-5PM

3. Able Earthmoving and Demolition

Able Earthmoving and Demolition is a family-run business offering its services anywhere in Brisbane, Queensland, and its surrounding areas. They have over twenty years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial demolition and earthmoving.

WEBSITE:	http://ableearthmoving.com.au/
ADDRESS:	3 Nemo St, Archerfield QLD 4108, Australia
CONTACT INFO:	+61 7 3096 0399
OPERATING HOURS:	Monday – Friday: 8AM-5PM

4. Abyss Demolition

Abyss Demolition is based in and has been in the business for more than ten years. It is regarded as one of the most competitive demolition companies in Queensland with its significant experience in both demolition and asbestos removal projects.

WEBSITE:	http://www.abyssdemolition.com.au/
ADDRESS:	PO Box 4423, Loganholme QLD 4129
CONTACT INFO:	07 3341 9400
OPERATING HOURS:	Monday – Thursday: 8:30AM-4:45PM, Friday: 8:30AM-4PM

5. Urban Demolitions and Plant Hire

Urban Demolitions and Plant Hire is a Brisbane-based company that carried out many of Queensland’s largest demolition and earthmoving operations. They have been in the industry for over 15 years and have a team of licensed and certified operators.

WEBSITE:	https://www.urbandemo.com.au/
ADDRESS:	45 Nundah St, Kedron QLD 4031, Australia
CONTACT INFO:	+61 7 3315 5935, [email protected]
OPERATING HOURS:	Monday – Friday: 8AM-4PM

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The cost of demolishing a house will vary depending on the size of the house, the location, the type of house, and the condition of the house. But if you want to get a rough idea of the cost, the above-mentioned guide will give you a good starting point.