Tearing down any structure, especially in populated areas, requires the filing of permits and other processes to ensure physical and environmental safety precautions are being observed. Applying for a single residential demolition requires obtaining and securing several things.
Demolition Permit--If you are applying for a single family residence demolition, the demolition will be included with your single family residence permit. Payment is not required in such a case. However, a permit needs to be obtained if there is no existing building permit. The cost of this document varies per state but it's usually around $50 to $60.
Site plan--The architect and the engineer hired for the job will have these documents. You need to submit a site plan that shows the exact items to be cleared; from the main structure to other smaller structures within the building site. Prepare two extra copies of these plans. Photos might also be required, so take pictures of both the front and the back of the structure to be torn down.
Erosion Control Measures--soil erosion is a factor to be considered in demolition processes. With all the heavy machinery, risk of bursting pipes, and digging, precautionary measures have to be taken to ensure the safety of all parties involved. The ground composition for residential areas is all different so it is important that contractors keep an eye on erosion incidents.
Demolition contractors decide on three factors when planning for soil erosion measures. (1) To keep the soil in the same location; (2)To keep the soil in a nearby area; and (3)Keep the soil on site.
When all the necessary documents have been secured, all the next steps will basically be left to the hired demolition contractors. A site clean-up will precede the tearing down process. Site clean-ups involve the removal of debris; which should be disposed to either a landfill area or a recycling facility. Contractors also expected to remove all sewage from existing cavities and fill with that area of soil, sand, gravel or other approved materials by the state.
Before a residential demolition proceeds, the site must also be inspected for asbestos. Asbestos is a dangerous compound that can cause respiratory problems and trigger carcinogens. There is a qualified group of experts that can check the site for asbestosAHERA-certified inspectors (Asbestos Hazardous Emergency Response Act)
Keep in mind that demolitions do not always entail the use of explosives, although this is often the case for industrial and commercial demolitions. But for smaller jobs like tearing down a two-story house, wrecking balls, manual and mechanical hammers, and concrete pulverizers should be able to do the job. Since dust will be an issue during this stage, contractors must have a steady supply of water to subdue dust and small debris that can be a hassle for the nearby areas.
After the wrecking process, the site should be left clean and free from debris, ready for actual building to begin. Only certified and accredited demolition contractors should do this dangerous job. It requires strategic planning and the right tools to properly execute all the phases.
