Key Takeaways
- Council approval required through DA or CDC before demolition
- Pre-1990 homes require asbestos inspection
- Typical demolition takes 3-5 days plus 2-3 days asbestos removal
Understanding House Demolition
House demolition involves far more than simply knocking down a building. It's a carefully planned and regulated process that requires permits, safety procedures, environmental considerations, and proper disposal of materials.
This guide explains everything you need to know before demolishing a house in Sydney.
The Planning Phase
Site Assessment
Every demolition project starts with a thorough site assessment by your chosen contractor. This includes:
- Property inspection and measurements
- Construction type assessment
- Hazardous materials identification
- Access evaluation for equipment
- Neighbour proximity considerations
- Underground services identification
Council Permits and Approvals
Demolition permits are mandatory in all Sydney councils. You'll need either:
- Development Application (DA): Required for most demolitions
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC): Faster option for standard demolitions
Professional contractors handle this entire process, including document preparation, submission, and council liaison.
Asbestos Considerations
If your home was built before 1990, it likely contains asbestos. This requires:
Inspection and Testing
- Professional asbestos survey
- Sample collection and laboratory testing
- Detailed asbestos register
- Removal scope documentation
Licensed Removal
Asbestos must be removed by licensed professionals before demolition. Learn more in our asbestos removal guide.
- Class A licence required for all asbestos types
- SafeWork NSW notification mandatory
- Strict containment and safety protocols
- Licensed disposal facilities only
- Independent clearance certificate required
Utility Disconnections
All services must be safely disconnected before demolition:
- Electricity: Supply terminated at property boundary
- Gas: Mains isolated and capped
- Water: Service disconnected
- Telecommunications: Phone and NBN removed
- Sewer: Capped at boundary where required
Your contractor coordinates these disconnections with relevant providers.
The Demolition Process
Site Setup
Before any demolition begins:
- Security fencing installed
- Warning signs erected
- Dust suppression systems ready
- Neighbours notified
- Traffic management in place
Soft Strip (Internal Demolition)
Internal elements are removed first:
- Wall linings and ceilings
- Floor coverings
- Fixtures and fittings
- Electrical and plumbing
- Doors and windows
Structural Demolition
The main structure is demolished systematically:
- Working from top to bottom
- Using excavators and appropriate machinery
- Continuous dust suppression
- Material sorting as work proceeds
- Safety monitoring throughout
Foundation Removal
Depending on requirements:
- Concrete slab breaking and removal
- Footings and piers extracted
- Underground tanks removed
- Site levelled and compacted
Waste Management and Recycling
Modern demolition emphasises recycling:
- Concrete and masonry: Crushed for road base
- Steel and metals: Recycled at scrap facilities
- Timber: Mulched or used for energy recovery
- General waste: Licensed landfill disposal
- Hazardous materials: Specialist licensed facilities
Professional contractors recycle 85% or more of demolition materials.
Typical Timeline
A standard house demolition follows this timeline:
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Quote and Planning | 1-2 weeks |
| Permit Approval | 2-8 weeks |
| Utility Disconnections | 1-3 weeks |
| Asbestos Removal | 1-5 days |
| Demolition | 3-7 days |
| Site Cleanup | 1-2 days |
Understanding Costs
Demolition costs vary based on several factors. See our detailed house demolition cost guide for comprehensive pricing information.
Key cost factors include:
- Property size and construction
- Asbestos presence and extent
- Site access and complexity
- Council permit fees
- Site preparation requirements
What Happens After Demolition
Once demolition is complete, you'll receive:
- Completion certificate
- Waste disposal records
- Asbestos clearance certificates (if applicable)
- Site photographs
- Council sign-offs
Your site will be left clean, level, and ready for your builder to commence construction or for additional site preparation if required.
Ready to Get Started?
Understanding what's involved helps you plan effectively. The next step is getting professional advice specific to your property.
Free Site Assessment
Our experienced team can assess your property, identify any challenges, and provide a detailed quote for your demolition project.
Book your free assessment or call 1300 329 600 to discuss your project.
Gabrael House Demolition
Demolition Industry Leaders
Our demolition experts have over 30 years of experience providing professional house demolition, asbestos removal, site remediation, and site preparation services across Sydney. We're committed to delivering safe, environmentally responsible, and high-quality demolition solutions for residential properties throughout Sydney and surrounding regions.
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