Navigating any construction project can be challenging for anyone, and even more so with the addition of necessary demolition. Whether due to the presence of asbestos in an old residential or commercial unit, structural damage, or simply a need for a clear area for a new construction, demolition considerations can be challenging, but the demolition process needn’t be impossible.
As building demolition contractors at Union Demolition, we have a proven track record of helping clients navigate numerous projects with ease, expertise and safety. We are providing this comprehensive guide to outline all the steps and considerations you will need to ensure a safe and effective demolition process.
Chief amongst concerns for any demolition project is safety. So, as part of the demolition requirements in NZ, you must obtain consent to demolish certain units.
Under Exemption 30 of Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, there isn’t any need to obtain consent in order to remove a building from a site, if the building is a standalone one, and no more than three storeys high. However, as Auckland Council advises, even if these conditions are met, you must also check with the Planning team to make sure resource consent isn’t needed for the demolition project.
If, then, the unit is attached to another or is over three storeys high, consent will need to be obtained.
In any case, it is always good to check with your local government to ensure all legal requirements are being met.
Asbestos is a silicate material utilised for centuries in numerous ways including home insulation. Exposure to asbestos, however, can cause a number of serious conditions and symptoms including lung cancer.
As such it is necessary that any buildings built before 2000 have an asbestos survey in order to fully ensure no asbestos is present. Should any be found it is important that it be safely removed by trained professionals.
Demolition can result in environmental factors that necessitate consideration including waste management, carbon emissions, noise pollution and potentially harmful substances like asbestos or sewage being released into the surrounding area. So, ensure that all water lines to and from the property are shut off, an asbestos survey is conducted and waste management is organised before work begins.
When taken into account, demolition can be done safely, effectively and professionally.
When wondering how to get a house demolished the first step should be to contact a house demolition contractor to guide you through the demolition process including site preparation.
Ensure all utility lines connected to the property are disconnected, any interior belongings are removed from the property, assess access needs for vehicles, crews and machines and erect any gates and fences required to keep neighbouring properties safe.
Your house demolition contractor will assess the most effective demolition methods for your property’s needs. Often removing doors, carpets etc before removing structural elements such as roofs and walls.
Finally debris will be removed from the site and recycled or otherwise disposed of safely.
Commercial demolition, whilst similar in many ways to residential, presents unique challenges. During site preparation extra care will need to be given to waste disposal due to larger quantities of waste and the potential for industrial waste requiring special disposal methods.
Similarly, preparation will need to be made for public safety in instances where the general public may have access or in the case of high rise properties where falling structures and falling debris present higher risks requiring minimum safe distances, barriers and signage.
In cases of partial demolition, a number of different methods may be implemented. For smaller structural changes manual tools such as sledgehammers, jack hammers, concrete saws etc may be deployed, for large scale demolitions such as the removal of an adjoining unit or smokestack etc larger tools such as wrecking balls, pusher arms or water jets could be used as and when necessary.
Interior demolitions or soft stripping can be undertaken in a controlled manner in order to prepare a unit for renovation by removing elements of internal structures such as walls, floors or fixtures whilst preserving the overall integrity of the unit.
Demolition presents a number of challenges and risks so when looking at a potential contractor consider the following:
Do they have experience delivering on projects? When comparing demolition services in Auckland it is paramount to choose a contractor with the experience and expertise to ensure that your project is completed to the highest possible standard. Check customer testimonials and their portfolio to find the best provider for you.
Do they have a proven track record working within best safety practices including safe disposal of waste? Demolition carries many risks and for the sake of reducing harm to people and the environment it is important that your contractor works within best safety practices.
Do they have the right insurance and licences? It is vital that demolition contractors have adequate insurance to protect you should any unforeseen circumstance affect your project and adequate licensing to operate within the scope of the law, working to safe and legal standards.
Do they have the right tools for the job? Certain tools are required for certain jobs and they need to be well maintained and safe to use in order to provide a professional and efficient result.
Here at Union Demolition our team of experts provide a range of services from single residential homes to large scale commercial projects. We are proud to have provided service of unmatched quality allowing us to be trusted by everyone from the Ministry of Education to individual homeowners.
We provide a service that keeps safety and satisfaction at its forefront. With our team of highly trained staff and modern, expertly maintained equipment to provide a safe and professional service, backed by comprehensive public liability insurance to provide the utmost security in your choice of contractor.
Though demolition may seem daunting, by choosing an experienced contractor with safety and satisfaction at heart like Union Demolition, demolition can be just another step taken in your dream construction project.
Reach out to Union Demolition for a free consultation and quote.
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