What is a Demolition Contractor?

A Demolition Contractor is a licensed professional responsible for safely dismantling or demolishing existing structures on your site. Their role includes managing permits, utilities, asbestos (if present), machinery, and waste removal in line with council and environmental regulations.



This is typically the very first trade engaged on a knockdown rebuild project and clears the way for new construction to begin.

What does a Demolition Contractor do?

Your Demolition Contractor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Demolition Contractor will:

  • Conduct a site inspection and review the structure to be demolished
  • Disconnect services (electricity, gas, water) or coordinate this with utility providers
  • Obtain council approval or comply with a Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
  • Manage asbestos removal (if applicable), including certification
  • Carry out structural demolition using excavators and hand tools
  • Remove rubble and waste from site, including proper recycling and disposal


They may also backfill and level the site if requested as part of the job.

Barry's Toolbox

Don’t book your demolition before service disconnections are confirmed — delays here are common and will stall your entire project.


Ask whether asbestos is assumed or excluded in your quote. Many older homes have hidden asbestos in cladding, eaves, or flooring, and it’s better to allow a buffer.

What to look for in a Demolition Contractor

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Current demolition licence and public liability insurance
  • Experience with residential demolitions, especially near neighbours
  • Inclusions for fencing, traffic control, and asbestos (if relevant)
  • Waste removal and tipping fees clearly outlined
  • A timeline that aligns with your slab start


Extra points if they coordinate permits on your behalf or handle tree removal where needed.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Demolition Contractors, you’ll need:

  • A copy of your site plan and photos of existing structures
  • Site access details and whether shared boundaries are involved
  • Confirmation of service disconnections (or who’s managing them)
  • Asbestos report (if already obtained)
  • Target date for demolition to begin

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need council approval to demolish a house?

    Yes — most demolitions require a permit through your local council or certifier, even if it’s just a partial structure.

  • What if asbestos is found during demolition?

    Work must pause and a licensed asbestos removalist will need to manage that portion of the job. This may trigger additional costs and delays.

  • Can I keep the slab or driveway?

    Yes — just make sure it's clearly excluded from the demolition scope. Anything not marked “to be retained” could be removed.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.