When you have an old house, it often makes more sense to demolish and rebuild than to renovate it. And while demolition is a big job, certain strategies will enable you to get it right the first time—saving you a lot of time and headaches. Never rush into the job! Instead plan well to ensure you don't end up making silly mistakes along the way.

Make A Checklist Of Items You Intend To Retain From The Property

When you choose to demolish an old property, it doesn't mean that you can't retain some elements from it. For example, perhaps you want to save the doors, windows and framework, or maybe you have a shed that's worth keeping. Be sure to have a checklist of items you intend to retain from the property so that the demolition team doesn't accidentally bring down your entire house with everything in it. Prepare the checklist and make sure every member of the demolition team has a copy.

Make Sure To Get The Place Checked For Asbestos

If your home is an older property built before 1990, then chances are asbestos exists in some way in it. This means that you will need to get the place properly tested for it to ensure its safe disposal before the actual demolition. Every state in Australia has rules governing the safe disposal of asbestos. For example, in WA, asbestos needs to be removed before the commencement of a demolition project under sections 452 and 453 of the WHS Regulation.

Check What Permits And Approvals Are Needed For The Demolition Project

Before any demolition project gets underway, you may need to acquire permits and approvals like asbestos removal and demolition licences, council approvals and much more. If you live in an area with protected nature, then you will need to ensure that you don't end up damaging them. It's always best to consult with your local council about what you can and cannot do before any demolition to avoid expensive fines later.

Disconnect Utility Services

Before you demolish your house, you will need to organise to get all the utility services demolished. For example, you will need to call your electricity, water and gas company to get them to disconnect services to your home temporarily. If you have a landline and Internet provider, then you will need to disconnect these services too.

Follow these simple planning strategies to ensure you get your residential demolition right.