Preparation Timeline
4-6 weeks
Before: Permits, surveys, utilities
1-2 weeks
Before: Clear site, notify neighbours
Day before
Final checks, access ready
4-6 Weeks Before Demolition
Check Planning Requirements
Determine if you need planning permission or prior notification. Most domestic demolition doesn't require full planning, but structures over 50 cubic metres need prior notification.
Read our planning permission guide →Arrange Asbestos Survey
For any building constructed before 2000, you need a Refurbishment & Demolition (R&D) survey. This identifies all asbestos-containing materials that must be removed before demolition.
Read our asbestos safety guide →Contact Utility Companies
Arrange disconnection of all utilities serving the building to be demolished:
- • Gas: Contact your gas supplier to cap the supply
- • Electricity: Contact your electricity supplier to disconnect
- • Water: Contact your water company to cap at the boundary
- • Telecom: Cancel broadband, phone lines, cable TV
Allow plenty of time. Utility companies can take 2-4 weeks to arrange disconnections.
Get Quotes & Book Contractor
Get multiple quotes and check that your chosen contractor has public liability insurance and a waste carrier license. Book your preferred dates.
1-2 Weeks Before Demolition
Notify Your Neighbours
Good communication prevents complaints and maintains relationships. Let neighbours know:
- • What work is being done
- • Expected start and finish dates
- • Likely working hours (usually 8am-5pm weekdays)
- • Who to contact if they have concerns
Clear the Building
Remove everything you want to keep from the building:
- • Furniture and personal belongings
- • Valuable fixtures (if allowed in your agreement)
- • Items in lofts, sheds, and outbuildings
- • Garden items near the demolition area
Tip: Anything left in the building will be treated as waste. Don't assume items can be retrieved once work starts.
Prepare Access
Ensure machinery can access the site:
- • Clear driveways and access routes
- • Remove vehicles from the work area
- • Check gate widths (excavators need 2.5m+ typically)
- • Identify any overhead cables or obstructions
- • Arrange parking permits if on-street parking is needed
Protect Adjacent Areas
Consider protection for areas near the demolition:
- • Move or cover plants you want to keep
- • Protect paving or surfaces from heavy machinery
- • Discuss boundary wall protection with your contractor
- • Photograph existing condition of neighbouring property
The Day Before
Confirm start time with your contractor
Ensure all utilities are confirmed disconnected
Final check that nothing is left inside
Clear any final obstacles from access routes
Ensure someone is available to meet the team
Common Causes of Delays
These issues can delay your project and add costs:
- • Utilities not disconnected - We cannot demolish with live services
- • Asbestos discovered - Must be removed before we can proceed
- • Access blocked - Vehicles, overhanging trees, narrow gates
- • Items left in building - Slows down demolition
- • Missing permits - Work cannot start without proper approvals
- • Underground services not marked - Risk of damage
Want a Printable Checklist?
Download our site clearance checklist to keep track of everything.
View ChecklistReady to Get Started?
Get a free quote and we'll guide you through the preparation process.