The cost of demolishing structures varies on several factors, ranging from the size to property access for the equipment. If you’re interested in having this service completed, it helps to know how our team estimates commercial demolition projects to ensure you receive accurate comparisons when soliciting competitive quotes.
When hiring an agency like We-Haul to complete this work, it is essential to receive a complete review of what to expect. Although commercial demolition involves turning an existing structure to rubble and removing the debris, specific challenges can create increased costs.
The best commercial demolition agencies have a proven history of project experience that you can review. Actions speak louder than words in this type of work.
Here are the factors We-Haul reviews when providing an estimate for our commercial demolition clients.
1. Square Footage
The square footage of a commercial building is the first consideration because most of the expense equates to the structure’s size. Accurate measurements are necessary, especially if it is an unusual shape or size.
If you want a rough estimate of what to expect:
- Measure the width and length of your commercial building.
- Multiply those numbers together to get your square footage.
- Once you have that figure, multiply it between $4 to $8 per square foot to have an idea of what to expect.
Factors Involved with Project Pricing
Here are some of the ways the price of commercial demolition services can increase or decrease based on the work that needs to be done.
- Building Height. The number of stories a structure has can affect the demolition method used. A building with one or two stories receives a different estimate than a high-rise structure.
- Location. Property location can impact building demolition because of the proximity to other structures, through the ground slope, and the equipment types required to complete the world. Using excavators is different work compared to controlled explosives.
- Property Accessibility. The cost to remove a structure is different if you’re in the middle of the city on a busy road compared to having open spaces to work with virtually no traffic.
When considering what commercial demolition company to use, it’s essential to consider all these factors. At We-Haul, we ensure that you receive a complete estimate that outlines each expense.
2. Presence of Asbestos
When commercial buildings were built in the 1980s, it was not unusual for them to contain asbestos. We know this material is harmful now, but it was considered a cheap and efficient product before its dangers were known.
The most common places you’ll find asbestos in buildings are insulation, millboard, floor tiles, steam pipes, and cement sheeting. It might be necessary to have a professional inspection before commercial demolition is allowed.
Before demolition work proceeds, asbestos removal is often required because airborne materials from it can be dangerous. It’s a tedious part of the structure removal process that certified professionals must do.
We-Haul cannot provide commercial demolition services if asbestos is confirmed within the structure. Once it is removed, we can proceed with an estimate.
3. Permits, Licensing, and Other Policies
When you need a commercial building demolished, it is essential to obtain the various permits and licenses required to complete the project. Depending on your property’s condition, the utility companies might have to know that this work is being done.
The cost of the various permits and licenses is variable. We-Haul does not obtain these items for clients.
Ontario requires property owners to apply to their municipality for a demolition permit. The process is similar to obtaining building permits, but some special situations apply. Some structures must have a separate heritage approval to proceed with the project.
Some permits are designed to demolish an existing structure to allow a new one to be built on the same site.
These three factors typically require you to obtain separate heritage approval from your municipality or the Ontario Heritage Trust.
- The property is located in a heritage conservation district.
- It is subject to a heritage conservation easement, which is a legal agreement protecting the heritage elements that apply to those who own the land.
- The structure is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.
You cannot begin a commercial demolition project without the appropriate permits and licenses.
Choosing We-Haul ensures that you receive an experienced partner for your commercial demolition needs. We’ll be happy to deliver an estimate for your project so that you can get moving on the services you need.
If you have any questions about this process or are unsure of where to start, you can count on our team to get you the answers you need. How can We-Haul serve you today?
