Things to Remember: Demolition and Refurbishment

Many residential and commercial property owners often weigh up whether renovations or demolition will suit their needs the best. Sometimes, renovation requirements can be so extensive that demolition can seem like the only option.

However, there can be far more involved in building demolition than simply knocking over a building and putting a new one in its place. Before you bring in that giant wrecking ball, consider the following information. You can then make an informed decision about whether demolition or refurbishment is the right decision for you.

Demolition Isn’t Always Necessary

You won’t find too many people who won’t admit that renovations can be hard work. Several tradespeople can be involved in the renovation process, and there can be many hidden surprises along the way.

However, even when renovations seem a lot more complicated than demolitions, that doesn’t mean demolition is a better option. Sometimes, there can be just as many complications associated with demolition as renovations, such as asbestos.  

Weigh up the pros and cons of renovations vs. demolition early on in your project so that you can make a fully informed decision.

Check for Asbestos Before Commencing Demolition

If you have decided that you’d like to make better use of the land you own, demolition can be the best option for your unique situation. Whether you work for a demolition company or you’re simply the property owner, one of the first things you may need to do before you get demolition underway is check for asbestos.  

Any building constructed before 2000 could contain asbestos, which means there’s every likelihood that your residential or commercial property does, as well. If you’re not sure or want to be completely confident before demolition begins, request asbestos testing. Ignorance or inexperience can have terrible consequences for both demolition workers and surrounding property owners.

Wear the Correct PPE

When your property or the property you will be demolishing has tested positive for asbestos, extra precautions will need to be taken throughout the entire demolition and debris removal process.

Asbestos removal experts will be required to assist, and all people present on-site while working with or around asbestos will need to wear appropriate PPE. This includes disposable boot covers over boots, or non-laced footwear, a mask, gloves, and coveralls.

Hire the Experts for Renovations and Demolition

You might think the only time you need to hire asbestos removalists is when you’re demolishing an entire property. However, they can also be required for complete structure refurbishment, as well. 

If you are removing more than 10m2 of asbestos, or the ACM is friable, you are legally required to hire licenced removalists like Chemcare rather than trying to remove asbestos yourself.

Keep a Record or Plan

Most business owners know that their business has to have an Asbestos Management Plan if this hazardous natural mineral is present in their structure. However, homeowners have no such obligations.

Even though you aren’t required to identify where asbestos is present, it can certainly help when the time comes to carry out renovations now and into the future. Perform asbestos testing throughout your home to identify the most likely areas for it to be present.

Keep a record of this information, which may benefit you and future owners during significant refurbishment projects.

Make Sure the Property is Demolition-Ready

Making sure a property is demolition-ready can be up to the demolition company and property owner. Property owners should remove everything they want to save, while demolition companies should ensure the structure is safe to be demolished.

Make sure all asbestos has been removed or contained, and remove all sources of electricity to the property that may pose a danger. It’s also crucial to minimise disruptions to neighbouring properties and put measures in place to protect neighbouring properties, as well.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

Whether you’re going full steam ahead with property demolition or refurbishment, it’s crucial to keep the lines of communication open with all involved. Several parties can be involved in a single project, from asbestos companies and demolition contractors to property owners and tradespeople. As a result, it’s easy for information to fall through the cracks or not get to the right people.

Decide on a preferred contact person and method for each group so that everyone can be adequately kept up to date with relevant information. The better the communication, the easier it can be for the project to go off without a hitch.

Rely on the Experts

With New Zealand’s aging housing stock, refurbishments and demolitions are happening all the time. The problem is, there can often be a lot more involved in the process, and a lot more danger, than many people realise. 

If a similar project is in your near future, it might be time to call in the experts. You would be surprised at how straightforward it can be when you’ve aligned yourself with the right people for the job.