Demolishing a structure is not as easy as people think. There are many factors to consider, making proper planning a must. There are several reasons why a building or structure is being considered for demolition, here are some:
- The structure has been condemned by the local government as uninhabitable, in some cases
- The structure has been considered structurally weak and beyond retrofitting
- A new establishment is to be built in place of the existing one
- The structure is covered within the area of government development
- Owner’s decision/ discretion
There are a lot more that goes into deciding whether a structure or building is to be demolished. In this article, we will discuss the costs of demolition.
Cost per Square Foot for House Demolition
House demolition ranges from $3.00 to $7.00 per sq. ft, depending on the extent of work and the type of structure materials to be demolished. The cost can increase as well, depending on certain conditions such as, foundation removal, or existing asbestos materials, etc. Since every structure is different form another in size, location, and materials, the cost per sq. ft. will vary.
The best way to estimate a demolition project accurately is to have a certified demolition contractor to give you a quotation. For simple structures, demolition contractors can give you a rough estimate over the phone the moment you call and provide them some basic details. But most of the time, they will go directly on site and carefully assess the building and its present condition as well as the surrounding areas of the location. Only then will they give you a more detailed and more accurate quotation.
Examples for Demolition of Residential Buildings in Various States
- Culver City, California
Area: 15,000 sq. ft.
Particulars: Damaged by fire
Total Cost: $75,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $5.00 per sq. ft.
- Ferndale, Michigan
Area: 1,000 sq. ft.
Particulars: Wooden home, existing asbestos, material, return to grade
Total Cost: $10,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $10.00 per sq. ft.
- Bayview, South Carolina
Area: 1,000 sq. ft.
Particulars: Single story cottage, no foundation and vinyl siding
Total Cost: $6,500.00
Price per sq. ft.: $6.50 per sq. ft.
- Fayetteville, North Carolina
Area: 2,500 sq. ft.
Particulars: Single story damaged by fire
Total Cost: $9,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $3.60 per sq. ft.
- Phoenix, Arizona
Area: 900 sq. ft.
Particulars: Wooden home
Total Cost: $3,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $3.30 per sq. ft.
As you can see, the price per square foot really does vary for each structure but is still in line with our estimated range of $3.00 to $7.00 per sq. ft. across the country.
Cost per Square Foot for Commercial Building Demolition
Here are some examples for commercial building demolition projects we found across the country.
Examples for Demolition of Commercial Buildings in Various States
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Area: 4,500 sq. ft.
Particulars: 2 story 4- plex building
Total Cost: $18,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $4.00 per sq. ft.
- Shoreline, Washington
Area: 2,300 sq. ft.
Particulars: Building with no basement
Total Cost: $11,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $4.70 per sq. ft.
- Holland, Michigan
Area: 28,800 sq. ft.
Particulars: 32 unit apartment building, each unit at 900 sq. ft.
Total Cost: $65,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $2.26 per sq. ft.
- Detroit, Michigan
Area: 4,800 sq. ft.
Particulars: 2 ½ story building, with existing asbestos material
Total Cost: $13,000.00
Price per sq. ft.: $2.70 per sq. ft.
Based on our examples for commercial buildings, it is evident that the price per sq. ft. in Michigan is close with each other. Meaning, that the location is also a determining factor in calculating the total project demolition cost.
Safety During Demolition
Demolishing a structure can present its own hazards to nearby people and properties. Some procedures have used explosives during the entire process. It is beneficial to know that a demolition site near you is safe. Here are some of the things you need to find in a safe demolition site.
- Local permits displayed on site
- Safety warnings along and near the perimeter of the site
- A sturdy perimeter barricade
- Overhead safety nets (inverted umbrellas)
- Workers in complete protective gear
Disposal of debris should also be considered. Normally, a demolition will need a 30 or 40- yard dumpster for the disposal of debris. If you do not see any of the above, keep away from the site and report to the authorities for everyone’s safety.