At Pro House Demolitions Brisbane, we help homeowners get ready for demolition projects of all sizes. Our team handles permits, inspections, site safety, and utility checks so your property is fully prepared before any machinery arrives. With years of experience in Brisbane suburbs, we make sure every step follows safety rules and local council requirements.
In this article, you will learn the simple steps to prepare your property for a safe demolition. You will see how to check permits, inspect your home, disconnect utilities, secure the site, protect shared boundaries, and get ready for demolition day.
Step 1: Confirm Permits and Compliance
You must secure the right permits before any demolition starts.
In Brisbane, most homes need a building approval (BA), and some may also need a development approval (DA) depending on zoning, overlays, and property type.
Brisbane Permit Checklist
✔ Building approval
✔ Development approval (if needed)
✔ Heritage or character overlay check
✔ Soil type and environmental rules
✔ Contractor licence and insurance
Hiring a licensed demolition company is always safer than DIY. A licensed team understands local codes and handles machinery, waste removal, and safety risks.
Step 2: Conduct Pre-Demolition Inspections
Your home must be inspected for structure and hazards before demolition. A structural engineer checks the building to see how it should be taken down safely.
Hazard Inspections You Need
- Asbestos audit (NATA-accredited testing)
- Lead paint checks
- Mould or chemical hazards
- Roofing and frame stability checks
Hazard removal must be done by licensed professionals before any machinery starts work.
A safe site must be fenced, signed, and clearly marked.
This stops people from entering the danger zone and helps workers move safely.
Site Safety Setup
- Temporary safety fencing
- Warning signs
- Clear exclusion zones
- Safe access paths for machinery
- Notice to nearby neighbours
Let your neighbours know about noise, dust, and possible parking changes, especially in busy Brisbane suburbs.
Step 4: Utility Disconnection Checklist
Every utility must be fully disconnected to stop fire, flooding, gas leaks, and cable damage.
Utility Disconnection Checklist
✔ Electricity — Isolated by a licensed electrician (Energex)
✔ Gas — Shut down and capped by your gas provider
✔ Water & Sewer — Disconnected by Urban Utilities
✔ NBN / Internet — Cables removed or isolated by NBN Co
Always get written confirmation from the service provider. This is one of the most important safety steps.
Step 5: Clear the Property
Your home must be empty before demolition starts.
Simple Pre-Demolition Clearing Steps
- Remove furniture and personal items
- Take out appliances
- Sort rubbish for proper disposal
- Separate items for recycling or donation
- Identify any hazardous waste
Mini-Checklist
✔ All valuables removed
✔ All bins cleared
✔ Recyclables sorted
✔ Hazardous materials identified
Step 6: Protect Shared Structures
Shared or boundary structures must be documented and protected.
Take clear photos of fences, shared walls, driveways, and retaining walls before work begins.
This step is important for duplexes, townhouses, and narrow Brisbane blocks where homes are close together.
Notify neighbours about vibration, dust, and expected timelines.
Step 7: Safety Preparation Before the Crew Arrives
Before demolition day, check that utilities are off, insurance is ready, and the site is safe.
Safety Checks
- Keep kids and pets away
- Reconfirm all utilities are disconnected
- Ask for the contractor’s public liability insurance
- Check your own home insurance
- Review the safety plan
A licensed demolition team should give you all safety documents before starting work.
Step 8: Day-of-Demolition Readiness
On demolition day, review the safety plan and keep all zones clear.
Workers must wear PPE and follow the agreed-upon steps.
If you are doing a partial demolition, it may take longer because the crew must protect parts of the home you are keeping.
A licensed team manages this carefully to avoid damage.
Step 9: Post-Demolition Cleanup and Inspection
After demolition, the site must be cleared and checked for safety.
Post-Demolition Checks
- All debris removed
- Utilities confirmed capped
- Ground levelled
- Soil checked for stability
- Waste disposal certificates provided
A clean site makes the next build or redevelopment stage easier.
Conclusion
Preparing your Brisbane home for a safe demolition is simple when you follow the right steps.
Good planning keeps your family safe, protects neighbours, and helps the project finish on time.
If you want expert help, Pro House Demolitions Brisbane can manage everything for you, from permits, inspections, utilities, safety checks, to full demolition services.
Contact our team today for a safe and stress-free demolition.
FAQs
How much does a residential demolition typically cost in Brisbane?
A residential demolition in Brisbane usually costs $15,000 to $40,000. The final price depends on house size, site access, waste removal, and whether asbestos is found. Sloped or narrow blocks often cost more
Can I stay in my home during a partial demolition?
No, it is not safe. Dust, noise, machinery, and falling materials can cause harm. You can return once the structure is stable and the team confirms it is safe.
Do I need permits for tree removal before demolition?
Yes. Brisbane City Council protects some trees and vegetation. Check rules for your property or ask your demolition contractor or arborist.
What insurance should I have before demolition?
You need demolition insurance or home insurance that covers structural work. Your contractor must also have public liability insurance.
Do Brisbane weather conditions affect demolition timelines?
Yes. Heavy rain, storms, and high winds can delay work because machinery cannot operate safely. Most teams wait for clear weather to follow safety rules.
