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Home Demolition Checklist: 10 Things to Tick Off Before Demo Day

The demolition site, with debris and two excavators—one yellow and one red—amidst fallen wooden and concrete materials, features effective sediment control measures. Trees and a modern building provide a contrasting backdrop to the construction chaos.

Your Home Demolition Checklist: 10 Things to Tick Off Before Demo Day

Planning a demolition? Whether you’re clearing the block for a fresh build or making way for development, proper preparation is essential. A smooth demolition starts well before the excavators arrive—and missing key steps can cause costly delays, fines, or safety issues.

At Home Demolitions, we’ve put together the ultimate Pre-Demolition Checklist to help you stay on track and stress-free. These 10 must-do tasks will ensure your site is safe, compliant, and ready to go when demolition day arrives.

1. Council Permits & Approvals

Before any structure is removed, you’ll need the proper development approval or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) from your local council or a private certifier. This can take time, so it’s best to start early. We can help guide you through the paperwork.

2. Notify Neighbours

Most councils require you to notify neighbours before demolition begins. It’s not just courteous—it’s often a condition of your approval. Giving them a heads-up about noise, access and timelines can also help avoid complaints and complications.

3. Disconnect Services

Power, gas, water, and telecommunications must be disconnected and confirmed in writing by the providers before work begins. You’ll need:

  • Energy provider confirmation of electricity disconnection

  • A plumber to organise sewer capping

  • Gas company to isolate gas supply

  • Disconnection of NBN/phone/internet lines

4. Asbestos Inspection & Removal

Any structure built before the 1990s may contain asbestos, which must be professionally inspected and removed before demolition. Home Demolitions is fully licensed to identify and safely remove asbestos as part of our process.

5. Site Access & Fencing

Ensure there’s clear access for machinery and that temporary fencing is installed around the property for safety and compliance. This is essential for protecting nearby properties and keeping the site secure.

6. ️ Clear Out the Interior

Remove all furniture, fittings, rubbish and belongings before the demolition begins. This includes:

  • Cupboards and shelving

  • Appliances

  • Curtains, carpet and personal items

If it’s staying, it should be clearly marked and discussed with your demolition team.

7. Tree & Vegetation Removal

If your site has trees, shrubs or garden beds in the demolition zone, they may need to be removed, trimmed or protected. Some trees require council permission to remove—our team can manage this or provide an arborist service if needed.

8. Check for Hazardous Materials

Aside from asbestos, older buildings can contain lead paint, old chemicals, insulation fibres and other hazardous materials. A qualified team like Home Demolitions will assess and remove these safely and legally.

9. ️ Salvage & Reuse Opportunities

Want to keep that heritage door or vintage timber flooring? Make a list of any items you’d like salvaged for reuse or resale, and let your demolition contractor know before work starts.

10. Final Walkthrough with Your Demolition Team

Before the machines roll in, walk through the site with your demolition provider to confirm:

  • Scope of works
  • Items to retain or remove
  • Access points
  • Schedule and estimated duration
  • A final walkthrough ensures everyone’s on the same page.

Planning a demolition in Sydney?

Home Demolitions offers a complete start-to-finish service, including permits, inspections, asbestos removal, vegetation management, and more.

Get in touch with our team today or request a quote online.
Let’s make your demolition project simple, safe and stress-free.

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