House & Structure Demolition

Surveys, permits and utilities come first

Before demolition starts, older buildings must be surveyed for asbestos, lead paint and other hazards, and any regulated material is removed by licensed abatement crews. The contractor arranges a demolition permit, notifies the air quality district where required and coordinates with utilities to disconnect power, gas, water and sewer. Neighbors may need notice, and protective fencing goes up. Skipping these steps can cause fines and delays, so ask who handles each task. Gather any building records, previous surveys and notes about additions or buried tanks, and share them with the contractor before the visit.

Controlled demolition and safety

Excavators with shears and grapples take the structure down in a planned sequence, while crews spray water to control dust and protect nearby property. Trees and utilities that must remain are protected, and the site is secured. Foundations, slabs, septic tanks and buried tanks may need separate handling. A good contractor describes how the building will come down, how long it will take and what hazards exist on the lot. Ask for the schedule of permits, utility shutoffs and surveys in writing, because demolition can start only when each step is complete.

Recycling, hauling and site restoration

Concrete, metal, brick and clean wood are often recycled, which lowers disposal costs and meets local diversion rules. Debris is hauled to approved facilities, and the lot is graded and cleaned so it is ready for construction or sale. Ask for waste receipts and recycling records, since cities may require them. Keep the permit, survey results and closeout photos with your property file. Plan for fencing, dust control and parking during the work, and tell neighbors about the dates so they can expect noise and trucks.

Excavation for Foundations & Additions

Excavation for foundations, additions and new structures by a licensed earthwork contractor: lay…

Utility Trenching (Water, Sewer, Gas & Electric)

Trenching for water, sewer, gas and electric lines by a licensed contractor, with correct depth,…

Driveway Removal & Regrade

Removal of old driveways and regrading of the surface by an earthwork contractor: demolition, ha…

Lot Grading & Pad Preparation

Lot grading and building pad preparation by a licensed earthwork contractor: clearing, cut and f…

Hillside Stabilization & Slope Repair

Hillside stabilization and slope repair by a licensed contractor: regrading, drainage, retaining…

Culvert & Drainage Pipe Installation

Culvert and drainage pipe installation by a licensed earthwork contractor for driveways, ditches…

Garage & Detached Structure Demolition

Demolition of garages, sheds and detached structures by a licensed contractor: permit checks, sa…

Land Clearing & Stump Removal

Land clearing and stump removal by an earthwork contractor: brush, small trees, stumps and roots…

Excavated Soil Haul-Off & Fill Delivery

Soil haul-off and clean fill delivery by an earthwork contractor: trucking excavated dirt away,…