Demolishing your home could seem like a straightforward and easy task. However, you need to be careful to avoid severe accidents and exposure to dangerous materials. Read this excerpt for some residential demolition tips. 

Hire A Qualified Contractor

Demolition works should be conducted by skilled and experienced contractors. Below are some tips to help you choose a demolition contractor: 

• Check the contractor's portfolio to ascertain that he or she has handled similar or larger projects in the past.
• Conduct some background checks to ensure the contractor has qualified personnel and the right equipment to conduct the demolition works.
• The contractor should have adequate insurance cover. Besides, he or she should be affiliated with professional associations in your locality.
• If you have a tight deadline, inquire about the contractor's availability. 

Declutter Your Home

Decluttering will significantly ease the demolition process. Some fixtures, such as doors, windows, bathtubs and sinks, can be used during renovation projects. Besides, you could sell them on E-commerce websites or in a neighbourhood auction. Remember to disconnect power, water and gas as you declutter the property. 

Property Inspection

The contractor should inspect the property to understand the required works. During the property inspection, he or she should: 

• Check whether the house contains dangerous materials such as asbestos, mould and lead. Remove these materials before demolition.
• Determine the equipment required to demolish the building. Skid steer loaders can demolish small wooden structures. However, the contractor could require wrecking balls and bulldozers to pull down large buildings.
• Identify access routes for the earthmovers.

Understand Local Laws

Check local laws and strata bylaws to identify restrictions on the demolition process. For instance, you may be required to secure a permit from the local council before pulling down the structure. Resident and strata bodies could also ask you to manage noise and dust pollution at the site. 

Observe Safety

You must observe safety when conducting the demolition works. For example, the contractor should formulate a demolition sequence that prevents debris from injuring site personnel or falling to your neighbour's property. On the other hand, the contractor could use electric equipment and jackhammers to limit noise pollution and the site. Safety netting and water curtains will prevent air pollution caused by dust. All personnel at the site should wear personal protective clothing. Additionally, demolition equipment should be in excellent condition and should be operated by skilled personnel. 

When conducting residential demolition, work with a qualified contractor, declutter the house, inspect the site, check the local laws and observe the recommended safety tips.

To learn more, contact a demolition contractor.