The process of tearing down an existing residential structure, such as homes, outbuildings, sheds, garages, and more, is termed residential demolition. In some cases, partial demolition may be necessary to complete renovations or additions. However, in others, a complete teardown is the only solution.
What is the Need for Residential Demolition?
There are many reasons why house owners might want to have their properties demolished. Sometimes, the house is too old or damaged to continue living in. And hence, the homeowner might decide to demolish the structure and build a new one on the same property. Or, maybe the homeowner is looking to restructure their property, and demolition & rebuilding is the only way to make it happen. Whatever the reason, homeowners must understand the residential demolition process before making any decisions.
Here are a few things you should know about the demolition process as a homeowner in Melbourne.
The Residential Demolition Process
There are a few different ways that the residential demolition process gets carried out by professional demolition experts. Some of the most popular demolition techniques are listed here.
Explosive Demolition
In this method, demolition experts strategically place explosive materials for a controlled explosion. The explosion gets timed, so the building collapses on itself within seconds. It is the most effective residential demolition method since it significantly reduces the damage caused to the immediate environment of the demolition.
Mechanical Demolition
Mechanical demolition is one of the most effective ways to demolish residential buildings. The demolishing company uses mechanical equipment like cranes, bulldozers, excavators and, in some cases, even wrecking balls to knock down residential buildings. The process involves breaking the structure into smaller pieces of debris. Some demolition companies in Melbourne employ undermining, i.e., weakening the structure’s internal support to ensure more effective demolition.
One might wonder if using explosives could be faster and more effective. But preparing for an explosive demolition is very time-consuming and costly. Moreover, there are also environmental ordinances that limit the use of such techniques. Hence, this process is the preferred and most time and cost-effective residential demolition method.
Manual Demolition
As the name suggests, this method involves workers using tools such as sledgehammers, hammers, crowbars and more to demolish the structure. It is a highly labour-intensive and time-consuming process. Hence it is only used to demolish structures like outbuildings and sheds.
At the end of the demolition process, all that remains is rubble. The demolition team removes the debris so construction for the new structure can begin.
Residential Demolition Requirements in Melbourne
In Melbourne, a demolition process must get approved by the local Council. When you hire a licensed demolition company, they get the necessary approvals for you, making the process hassle-free and time-efficient. Listed below are some permissions you must have before the process begins.
● Council Consent for Demolition
A licensed demolition company applies to the concerned Council for Consent to Demolish (Section 29A). It can take 15 to 20 business days for the Council to revert to your application.
● Tree Removal Permits
Depending on the extent and requirements of your project, you might need tree removal permits from your Council. These rules might be different for different Councils. Whether the site has a heritage or landscape overlay, the type and size of the tree to be removed, and the nature of the project will all affect the type of permits you require. Consult with your demolishing expert in Melbourne to learn more about all the permissions you’ll need.
● Council Asset Protection
Before the demolition starts, you’ll also need an asset protection permit from the Council, as it protects Council assets like roads, kerbs, footpaths, drains and nature strips. You must also pay for an “Asset Protection Bond” that the Council holds for the duration of the demolition project in Melbourne. The bond amount is then returned in full to the petitioner once the project is over and has not caused any damages caused to the Council assets.
● Demolition Permit
After you receive the demolition permit from the Council, the demolition company applies for the same from their Building Surveyor. If there is a chance the project might affect any adjacent garages or neighbouring property, they might ask the company to obtain Protection Works. It involves getting the concerned neighbour’s consent for the project.
● Neighbour’s Permission
Homeowners should notify their neighbours about the demolition project before it begins as a courtesy. This way, they can also be prepared for all the noise and dust generated and take preventive measures.
Find Trusted Licensed Demolition Experts in Melbourne
As a homeowner, it’s not an easy choice to decide to demolish an existing house. And before you decide on tearing down your home, you must understand the residential demolition. Once you have the necessary information, you’ll be better able to choose what’s best for you.
Merhi Group is one of Melbourne’s most trusted licensed demolition companies. They have extensive expertise and experience in the industry & come highly recommended. They assist you with your demolition project in Melbourne, and their experts work to ensure that the process is time-efficient and hassle-free. Connect with them for excellent demolition services in Melbourne at highly competitive prices.
