Does your current business building bring to mind the fabled Tower of Babel? If the structure isn’t meeting your current needs or is too dated for modern use, you may consider tearing it down to pave the way for a new building. In this regard, a local residential demolition contractor can lend you a hand.
Even so, diving headlong without evaluating the costs involved might leave you with a hefty bill you cannot settle. Thus, it’s prudent to think ahead and figure out the estimated costs to determine the way forward better. Let’s delve deeper and examine the variables most likely to impact the cost of your project.
1. The Size of the Building in Question
How much space do you need to clear? Plus, how complex is the construction? Certainly, the bigger the structure and more complex its architecture, the more you can expect to pay to bring it down. Likewise, the complexity of the building’s design may determine the type of equipment the contractor is likely to use during the demotion – this undoubtedly can affect the total cost.
Typically, contractors charge based on a structure’s square footage (i.e., length × width). As such, you need to establish the approximate size of the building you plan to demolish. To this end, a laser measuring tool can provide accurate readings. If this isn’t available, a good ole’ tape measure will suffice.
Average demolition costs fall in the $4 to $8 range per sq. ft. Also, commercial building demolition costs decrease as square footage increases. Why? Well, it’s simple; the more work there is to do, the greater the savings for the contractor. Plus, a smaller structure may require equal or greater effort to bring down as you would a larger builder.
2. Your Building’s Construction Date
Older structures, specifically those built in the 1980s or earlier, often require more prep work to bring down. This is because the materials used back then usually contain asbestos and other hazardous substances.
As such, per EPA guidelines, you’ll need to factor in the additional expenses entailing abatement procedures, including inspection and safe removal. An abatement professional can provide a more accurate and written estimate of dealing with asbestos, although you can expect to pay roughly $3 per sq. ft.
3. Location
Is the intended structure located within a city or a remote area? Geography typically affects demolition costs – as prices vary from place to place.
Also, regulations in some parts of the country may discourage demolition and favor rehabilitation as an alternative. As a result, they typically charge more than in other areas for demolition permits – which also leads us to our next point.
4. Permits
Most jurisdictions require a permit or license before you can commence demolition. Thus, expect to part with about $200 for a demolition permit, although the figure may vary by location. You can find out the exact figure from your local building authority.
Well, I know what you’re thinking, “that’s a small price and maybe I can skip the permit.” That’s not a good idea – we strongly advise against it. Without the proper paperwork, you may incur a hefty fine and face other legal repercussions.
If the process of getting the green light seems like a hassle, your contractor may acquire the permit on your behalf. And while at it, keep your utility company in the loop so they can disconnect their services.
5. Accessibility
Are you dealing with a multi-story building in the heart of a bustling city? Or is the building situated in a remote location with limited access?
In either case, the contractor may need to use specialized machinery or rent additional equipment, which could prove costly. Also, if they need to control traffic or adopt other safety procedures to ensure public safety, you can expect the costs to increase.
6. Debris Disposal
Depending on your arrangement with the contractor, you may need to cover additional costs entailing debris disposal. The figure usually depends on the size of your project, the subcontractor you hire (if the demolition contractor doesn’t offer the service), location, and local regulations. All the same, it’s preferable to work with a demolition contractor who also provides debris removal services as they’re more likely to offer a lower rate.
Most importantly, get a written estimate from the demolition contractor for a better picture of the total cost. Also, ensure they include all the charges upfront (to avoid grey areas) so they don’t saddle you with unexpected costs after completing the project or mid-way through the job. That said, we presume you now understand the expected demolition costs better.
The Latest Technology Transforming The Construction Industry
The Latest Technology Transforming The Construction Industry