Demolishing a house costs an average of $18,000, but the price can range from $4,500 to as high as $75,000. You’ll pay between $3 and $5 per square foot for a single-story home. A two-story home will cost twice as much because it requires more time and labor to demolish.
The total cost to demolish a house also depends on the size of the house, the condition of the structure, and whether asbestos is present. Asbestos removal is required by law in some states, and it can add $2,000 or more to the total cost of demolition. If you live in a state that doesn’t require asbestos removal, you may be able to save money by doing it yourself. However, this is a dangerous job that experienced professionals should only attempt. If you are looking for professional experts offering residential demolition service, do a proper background check before settling on your choice of company.
The cost of demolishing a house also depends on the following factors:
The Size of the House
The larger the house, the more it will cost to demolish. A 2,000-square-foot home will cost twice as much to demolish as a 1,000-square-foot home. This is because larger homes require more time and labor to demolish.
The Condition of the House
If the house is in good condition, it will be easier and cheaper to demolish. If the house is in bad condition, it will be more difficult and expensive to demolish. Houses in poor conditions require more time and labor to demolish, and they may also require special equipment.
The Presence of Asbestos
If asbestos is present in the house, a professional must remove it before the demolition can begin. Asbestos removal is required by law in some states, and it can add $2,000 or more to the total cost of demolition.
The Location of the House
If the house is located in a remote area, demolishing it will cost more because special equipment will be required to reach the site. If the house is located in an urban area, demolishing it will cost less because there is already infrastructure in place to support the demolition.
The Type of House
The type of house also affects the cost of demolition. A brick house will cost more to demolish than a wood frame house because it is more difficult to break down. A concrete house will cost more to demolish than a brick house because it is even more difficult to break down.
The Type of Foundation
The type of foundation also affects the cost of demolition. A concrete slab foundation will cost more to demolish than a wood frame foundation because it is more difficult to break down.
The Type of Roof
The type of roof also affects the cost of demolition. A shingled roof will cost more to demolish than a metal roof because it is more difficult to remove.
The Type of Siding
The type of siding also affects the cost of demolition. Vinyl siding will cost more to demolish than wood siding because it is more difficult to remove.
The Presence of Utilities
If the house has utilities, they must be disconnected before the demolition can begin. This will add to the cost of demolition.
The Type of Disposal Needed
The type of disposal also affects the cost of demolition. If you plan to recycle the materials from the house, it will cost more to demolish because the process is more labor-intensive. If you plan to landfill the materials from the house, it will cost less to demolish because the process is less labor-intensive.
The Type of Equipment
The type of equipment used to demolish the house also affects the cost. If you use an excavator, it will cost more than using a sledgehammer. This is because excavators are more expensive to rent, requiring special training to operate.
The Number of Workers
The number of workers also affects the cost of demolition. If you hire a professional demolition company, they will usually charge by the hour. The more workers you have, the faster the job will be done and the less it will cost.
If you’re considering demolishing a house, getting multiple quotes from different contractors is important. Demolition is a complex job that requires specialized equipment and experience, so be sure to hire a reputable contractor who has the necessary licenses and insurance.