Frequently Asked Questions About Demolition Contractor
What are the three methods of demolition?
Manual demolition involves hand tools and smaller equipment – perfect for heritage areas like Forrest where we need to preserve surrounding structures. Mechanical demolition uses excavators and hydraulic breakers – this is what we use for most Canberra driveways and commercial projects. Controlled demolition with explosives is rare in Canberra due to our urban density, but we coordinate with specialists when needed for large infrastructure projects.
What is the mechanical method of demolition?
Mechanical demolition is what most Canberra property owners need. I use excavators with hydraulic breaker attachments to break up concrete efficiently. For a typical driveway in Forrest, my 8-tonne excavator can remove the entire surface in half a day, compared to a week of backbreaking manual work.
What is the manual method of demolition?
Manual demolition means using handheld tools like jackhammers, sledgehammers, and concrete saws. I use this method frequently in Canberra’s established suburbs where access is limited or when working around delicate landscaping that affluent homeowners want to preserve.
Last month, I manually removed concrete steps from a heritage home in Deakin. The property was worth over $2 million, and the owners needed to preserve their established garden beds and heritage brickwork. Manual demolition took longer but saved thousands in landscaping restoration costs. It’s often the right choice for high-value properties where precision matters more than speed.
What are the two main types of demolition?
The two main types I handle in Canberra are selective demolition and complete demolition. Selective demolition removes specific sections while preserving the rest – like removing just a damaged driveway section while keeping the rest intact. Complete demolition removes everything, like when we demolished that old pool in Yarralumla last year.
Most of my Canberra clients need selective demolition because they’re renovating rather than starting fresh. Property values here mean people invest in upgrades rather than complete rebuilds. Complete demolition usually happens with older homes on large blocks where the land value exceeds the building value.
What is the first step in preparing for a demolition project?
The first step is always a comprehensive site assessment. I start by checking for utilities – Canberra’s older suburbs often have underground services that aren’t properly mapped. I use ground-penetrating radar when needed because hitting a gas line or electrical cable turns a simple driveway removal into a major incident.
Next, I evaluate access routes. Many established Canberra suburbs have narrow streets and limited parking. I need to plan equipment delivery, especially in areas like Forrest or Red Hill where street access is restricted. Finally, I check heritage overlays and development controls. Canberra has strict planning rules, and I’d rather spend time on permits upfront than deal with compliance issues later.
Do I need a section 80 demolition notice in Canberra?
Yes, most structural demolition in Canberra requires development approval under the Planning and Development Act. You don’t need approval for minor work like removing a garden path, but driveways, slabs, and any structural elements require permits. Heritage areas have additional requirements.
I handle all permit applications for my clients because navigating ACT bureaucracy can be confusing. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, longer during busy periods. The cost ranges from $500 for simple residential work to several thousand for complex commercial projects. Getting permits right the first time prevents delays and potential fines.
