Demolition Contractors in New York City, NY

Demolition Questions and Answers for New York City, NY

What services do New York City demolition contractors typically perform?

Services performed by demolition contractors vary widely and every demolition contractor has their own list of offered services. Different contractors may specialize in different services based on their equipment and level of expertise. Check the demolition companies above for their offered services to locate the right company for your project.

 Some of the more commonly offered demolition services include:

• Residential Demolition - Home demolition or the wrecking and removal of a garage, shed, retaining wall, deck, or other residential building (typically less than 3 stories). This type of structural demo is typically achieved with hydraulic excavators and bull dozers.
• Industrial or Commercial Demolition - Wrecking services for larger jobs and larger buildings. May require a wrecking ball or controlled (explosive) demolition.
• Environmental Remediation - asbestos abatement and removal along with other hazardous materials like lead paint.
• Selective or Interior Demolition - Interior renovation projects may require demolition crews tearing down and removing debris from walls, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, etc...
• Asphalt and Concrete Demolition and Removal - Removal of concrete driveways, foundations, patios, sidewalks, etc...
• Swimming Pool Removal - Above ground and in-ground swimming pool demolition and removal
• Underground Storage Tank Removal - Cleanup and removal of hazardous materials contained in underground storage tanks.
• Excavating - Site clearing and preparation for building.

How much does house demolition or building demolition cost? Can I get a rough estimate over the phone?

Home demolition, garage demolition, or commercial building demolition almost always require an on-site estimate because there are so many variables that affect the cost of demolishing a building. Factors that affect the cost of demolition include:

• Environmental issues, such as the need to remove asbestos or underground storage tanks, can significantly increase costs
• Material (brick, cinder block, wood, etc...) the building was constructed with.
• Debris disposal - hauling and landfill fees vary widely by location. Are there any salvageable materials that can be diverted from the landfill?
• Concrete demolition and removal of the foundation adds cost
• Square foot of the building and the number of stories for the house or building. Multi-level structures add to the cost of demolition.
• The need for excavation or site clearing and preparation

Do I need a permit for demolition?

Yes, permits are typically required. Depending on where you live, permits may be required by the city, county, and/ or state. Your local municipality may also have regulations related to notifications, noise, hours of demolition, disposal of the debris, etc... Your hired demolition contractor should be well informed about local regulations and will pull the permits on your behalf in most cases, but be sure to clarify up front with the contractor all the services they will perform.

What is the process for demolition of a house, garage, shed, or barn?

1. Request an estimate or estimates from licensed and insured New York City demolition contractors. Demolishing a home, garage, or commercial building is not a simple project and requires the expertise of a professional demolition contractor to guide the process. During the estimate site visit, interview the contractor for qualifications, references, EPA certifications, and the process the demolition contractor would follow to knock down and remove the building.
2. Apply for demolition permits and approval from local government authorities. Depending on your location, demolition permits may be required by the city, county, and/ or state. Your local municipality may also have regulations related to notifications, noise, hours of demolition, disposal of the debris, etc... Your hired demolition company should be well informed about local regulations and will often pull the permits on your behalf.
3. Utilities need to be properly disconnected. Utility companies for gas, water, and electricity need to be contacted. All utilities need to be properly disconnected or terminated at the source prior to demolition. Again, coordinating this may be handled by your hired demolition company, but clarify upfront from the contractor all of the services that are provided.
4. Older homes or buildings need to be inspected for hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint prior to being demolished. If your home or building contains hazardous materials, proper procedures for abatement need to be followed. Your hired demolition contractor may offer this service or sub contract it to an environmental remediation specialist.
5. Safely tear down the building. For one to three story structures like a shed, garage, or a home, demolition of the structure is usually achieved using large hydraulic equipment like cranes, excavators and/or bulldozers.
6. Removal and disposal of demolition debris. Debris will be loaded onto trucks or into roll off dumpsters for hauling to recycling centers or landfills. Discuss the options of salvaging and recycling demolition materials with your hired demolition contractor.