If you have an old outbuilding or garage you want to be torn down so you can use the land for a garden or other use, you can call a demolition service to knock the building down and haul it away, or you can have the building torn apart by hand. A demolition service gets the job done much quicker and for less cost. However, demolition is an involved process. Here are some things to know.
1. You'll Probably Need A Permit
Unless your outbuilding is considered a shed, you'll probably need a permit to tear it down. You may need additional permits if the building has electricity and plumbing. Your city may also require an escrow in addition to the cost of the permits. The escrow is to make sure there are funds available to complete the job, and you'll get that money back after the final inspection.
2. You May Need An Inspection
Depending on the type of building you're having torn down and where the building is located, you might need to have an inspection for things like asbestos and lead. If asbestos or mold is found, the demolition contractor has to tear down and dispose of materials in accordance with local codes so mold and asbestos won't float through the air and become a health hazard.
3. You'll Need Utility Lines Marked
Before the demolition contractor can start digging on your property, the utility lines have to be marked. You might also need contractors to disconnect utilities properly if your outbuilding has them. Finding out what's under and near the building is essential so plumbing pipes or a septic system isn't harmed during the demolition.
4. You Might Need The Land Graded
Once the building is gone, you may need to have soil placed in the space and compacted and graded so it drains properly. If you plan to put up a new outbuilding, you'll need solid soil for pouring the slab. Talk to the demolition service to see if they grade the ground after it's bare. Once the soil is in place and level, you'll be ready to plant sod or do whatever you want with the new land space you have.
5. You May Want To Save Parts Of The Building
Find out if you have any valuable building materials before the demolition contractor begins work. Old wood is sometimes valuable if it can be turned into flooring or siding for those seeking distressed decor for their homes. You may want advice from a professional when deciding if it's worth the cost and trouble to save some of the boards or things like an antique sink or unique windows.
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