The Cost of Demolition
Wondering how much it will cost to demolish part or all of your home in the UK? Whether you’re tackling a major renovation, demolishing a garage, or removing part of a property to create something new, understanding the costs and processes involved is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the various types of demolition, associated costs, and other important considerations for your project.
In This Guide
- How Much Does Demolition Cost?
- What Affects the Cost of Demolition?
- Labour Costs and Timescales
- Additional Costs to Consider
- Types of Demolition
- Can I Perform Demolition Myself?
- FAQs
How Much Does Demolition Cost?
The price of demolition can vary significantly depending on the size, type, and complexity of the job. From a simple garden shed to demolishing an entire house, costs will change based on the scale and specific details of your project. Here’s an updated pricing guide for common demolition jobs:
| Demolition Type | Low Range | High Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small House (80-120m²) | £3,000 | £8,000 | £5,500 |
| Large House (200-250m²) | £14,000 | £35,000 | £25,000 |
| Garage Demolition | £1,200 | £4,500 | £2,800 |
| Removing a Load-Bearing Wall | £1,500 | £3,000 | £2,250 |
| Shed Demolition | £600 | £1,800 | £1,200 |
| Chimney Removal | £500 | £2,000 | £1,250 |
These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on several factors, such as the location of the property, the type of structure, the size of the building, and local regulations. Let’s take a deeper look into what affects these costs and explore some additional expenses.
What Affects the Cost of Demolition?
Several variables contribute to the final cost of demolition. Here are the key factors that will influence your overall budget:
- Size and Type of Property:
The most significant factor in demolition pricing is the size of the building. Demolishing a small bungalow will obviously cost much less than taking down a multi-storey house. But it’s not just the size; the type of property matters too. A house with a complex structure, such as a semi-detached or terraced home, will likely cost more than a detached one. - Location:
The area you’re in can have a substantial impact on costs. In major cities like London, the cost of demolition services can be 20-30% higher compared to rural areas. This is due to the higher cost of living, more demand for services, and increased competition among contractors in urban regions. - Access to Site:
The more difficult it is to access the property, the more expensive the demolition is likely to be. If there are obstacles like narrow streets, limited access for machinery, or the need for additional traffic management, these factors can increase the price. - Waste Removal and Disposal:
Waste removal is one of the biggest parts of any demolition job. The costs of disposing of rubble, materials, and hazardous substances like asbestos can increase the final bill. You may also need additional skips or containers, especially if you’re demolishing large buildings. Contractors may offer discounts if they can reuse or sell materials, such as bricks or metal.
Labour Costs and Timescales
Labour costs are a key consideration when budgeting for demolition. The amount of time and number of workers needed depends on the scale of the project.
| Demolition Type | Labour Time | Daily Labour Cost | Estimated Labour Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small House (80-120m²) | 2-3 Days | £200 per worker | £1,200 - £2,400 |
| Large House (200-250m²) | 5-7 Days | £250 per worker | £6,000 - £10,500 |
| Garage Demolition | 1-2 Days | £200 per worker | £400 - £800 |
| Shed Demolition | 1 Day | £200 per worker | £200 - £400 |
| Wall Demolition (Load-Bearing) | 1-2 Days | £250 per worker | £500 - £1,000 |
Note that prices can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the number of workers required. For large projects like whole house demolitions, a team of 3-4 workers may be needed, while a single contractor could handle smaller demolitions. Labour charges can range from £150 to £250 per day per worker, with the total number of workers required based on the project’s scale.
Additional Costs to Consider
Garden Waste Removal:
If the demolition is happening in your garden, expect to incur additional charges for garden waste disposal. Here are the main options:
- Man with a Van: £100 to £350, depending on the volume of waste.
- Skip Hire: Prices range from £100 for a small 4-yard skip to £500 for larger skips (12-16 yards).
- Council Collection: Some councils offer a waste collection service for garden refuse, but it’s usually only for smaller amounts and can range from £50 to £150.
- Hazardous Material Removal:
If your property contains hazardous materials like asbestos, the removal can be costly. Asbestos abatement costs anywhere from £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the amount of material. Contractors may need to handle this separately, and it typically requires certified professionals for safe removal and disposal. - Site Preparation:
After demolition, you may need to prepare the site for new construction, which could involve removing foundations, clearing rubble, or levelling the ground. This can add £1,000 to £3,000 depending on the amount of work required. - Planning Permission and Regulatory Fees:
While many demolition jobs don’t require planning permission, it’s always advisable to check with your local council before proceeding, especially if your property is listed, or if you're working in a conservation area. Applying for planning permission can cost between £400 and £1,000 depending on the project, and additional fees may be required for environmental assessments.
Types of Demolition
- Full Demolition:
A complete demolition is the process of taking down an entire building, including all structural elements like walls, foundations, and roofing. This is typically the most expensive form of demolition and is required when you’re planning to completely rebuild. - Selective or Soft Demolition:
Selective demolition refers to taking down only certain parts of a building, such as interior walls, windows, or roofing, while leaving the rest of the structure intact. This can be cheaper than full demolition, especially if you're planning on repurposing part of the building. - Interior Demolition:
Interior demolition focuses solely on removing internal structures like walls, floors, and ceilings without affecting the exterior. It's a popular choice for renovations, as it allows for changes in layout without impacting the outside of the property.
Can I Perform Demolition Myself?
While it might seem tempting to tackle a demolition job yourself, it’s generally not recommended unless the scope is small and straightforward (such as demolishing a shed or garden wall). Demolition often involves structural risks, the potential for encountering hazardous materials, and the need for specific tools and safety equipment. It’s best to hire professionals to ensure the work is carried out safely and correctly.
FAQ's
Do I need planning permission for demolition?
- Most demolition projects don’t require planning permission unless the building is listed, in a conservation area, or part of a larger project. Always check with your local authority to avoid unexpected costs or delays.
How much does it cost to demolish a garage?
- Garage demolition typically costs between £1,200 and £4,500. The price depends on factors like size, location, and whether the garage is attached to the house.
How can I save money on demolition?
- Consider salvaging materials like bricks, wood, or metal. Some contractors will give you a discount if they can reuse or resell materials. Additionally, check if your council offers any waste disposal schemes for garden waste.
Is demolition safe?
- When handled by professionals, demolition is a safe process. Contractors must follow strict health and safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure proper handling of hazardous materials.
Demolition is a critical step in many home improvement projects, but it comes with its own costs and considerations. By understanding the factors that influence pricing and the typical costs for different types of demolition jobs, you can better plan your budget and avoid surprises. Always hire qualified professionals to ensure the job is done safely, efficiently, and within legal requirements, and don’t forget to factor in additional costs like waste removal, permits, and any unforeseen complications.