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Demolition permits and asbestos surveys

Tearing down a house, a garage, a pool or a slab is a permit job almost everywhere, and the order of steps matters. A good demolition contractor knows the local rules and tells you who handles each step.

The usual order

  1. Asbestos survey. An accredited inspector checks materials such as siding, flooring, roofing and pipe insulation. Anything containing asbestos is removed by a licensed abatement crew before demolition.
  2. Notice, where required. Under the federal asbestos rule (EPA NESHAP, 40 CFR 61 Subpart M), most demolitions need written notice to the state or local air agency at least 10 working days ahead, even when no asbestos is found.
  3. Demolition permit. The city or county building department issues it. Most ask for proof that utilities are disconnected first.
  4. Utility disconnects. Gas, electric, water and sewer are cut and capped by the providers or a licensed trade. Plan for this; it often sets the schedule.
  5. Demolition and haul-off. Debris goes to a landfill or recycler; concrete and metal are often recycled.

Single houses and the federal rule

A residential building with four or fewer dwelling units is usually excluded from the federal asbestos rule. That exclusion does not apply when the house is part of a larger project, such as several houses cleared by one developer or a road or commercial project. Many states, counties and cities require an asbestos survey for a single house anyway, so ask your building department before assuming you are exempt.

Questions to ask a demolition contractor