Complete Guide to Demolition Cost Estimation
The Demolition Cost Calculator helps contractors, developers, and homeowners estimate interior, exterior, or full structure removal. It includes labor, equipment, waste disposal, permits, and hazmat. Our free tool uses industry rates for accurate budgeting.
What is Demolition Cost Calculation?
Demolition cost includes labor ($3–$15/sq ft), equipment (excavator, dumpster), disposal ($30–$60/yd³), and permits ($200–$2,000). Average $4–$12 per sq ft for full house. Our Demolition Cost Calculator breaks down each component.
Why Plan Demolition Costs?
Avoids:
- Surprises: Hidden asbestos or lead.
- Delays: Permit issues.
- Over-Dumping: Excess disposal fees.
- Damage: To adjacent structures.
Pair with Site Preparation and Excavation Cost for full site reset.
How to Calculate Demolition Cost
Step-by-step:
- Labor: $3–$15/sq ft based on type.
- Equipment: $500–$5,000/day.
- Disposal: Volume × $30–$60/yd³.
- Permits: $200–$2,000.
- Hazmat: $2,000–$10,000 if present.
Example: 1500 sq ft house = $6,000–$18,000 full demo.
Average Demolition Costs by Type
| Type | Cost/sq ft | Total (1500 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Gut | $3–$10 | $4,500–$15,000 |
| Exterior Only | $5–$15 | $7,500–$22,500 |
| Full Structure | $4–$12 | $6,000–$18,000 |
| Selective (per hour) | $50–$200 | N/A |
Key Factors Affecting Cost
- Access: Tight lots need hand demo.
- Materials: Concrete vs wood.
- Stories: +20% per floor.
- Hazmat: Asbestos, lead, mold.
Practical Applications
Used for:
- Renovations: Gut kitchen/bath.
- Rebuilds: Full house removal.
- Commercial: Strip-outs.
- Disaster: Fire/flood cleanup.
Tips to Save on Demolition
- Salvage: Sell fixtures, lumber.
- DIY Small Jobs: Non-structural.
- Recycle: Metal, concrete credits.
- Bundle Services: With excavation.
Common Mistakes
- No Survey: Miss hazmat.
- No Permits: Fines and stop-work.
- Underestimate Volume: Extra dumpster trips.
- Neighbor Damage: No protection.
Advanced Considerations
- Implosion: For tall buildings.
- Deconstruction: For salvage value.
- LEED Recycling: 75% diversion credits.
- Contingency: Add 15% via Contingency Calculator.
Conclusion
Proper demolition planning ensures safe, cost-effective removal. Our Demolition Cost Calculator provides instant estimates with full breakdown. Combine with Site Prep, Excavation, or Total Project Cost tools for complete site work. Clear the way with 1000 Calculators.