If you’re ready to start the demolition process, it’s essential to make sure that you are working with the right demolition contractor. Removing an existing structure requires careful precision and planning to ensure safety every step of the way.
Any time you are hiring a construction or demolition contractor, it’s smart to do a bit of research before choosing a team. Here are a few questions you should always ask before you sign the contract:
Does the Contractor Have a Valid License to Operate in Your State or Local Area?
Always make sure you are hiring a demolition contractor who is licensed and certified to complete the work that you need. Having a valid license speaks to the experience and professionalism of the team that you are hiring. Not only should you ask about the contractor’s licensing, but also request more information to see the certificates and business license number.
Is The Contractor Insured for General Liability and Workers’ Compensation?
As you are vetting potential demolition contractors to hire, also ask about their insurance and liability coverage. While the hope is that nothing will go wrong on the project, there is always a risk of injury or property damage. An experienced demolition contractor will have the necessary liability and Workers’ Compensation to pay for any medical expenses or property repair work as needed.
This coverage is important because it gives you the peace of mind to know that you won’t likely be held liable if an accident happens. Good coverage will pay for employee injuries or anything else that happens unexpectedly.
What Exactly is Included in the Demolition Work?
Make sure to have a clear scope of work outlined in the contract. There are many things that need to happen for a successful demolition from start to finish. Not only does the structure need to be torn down, but it’s also necessary to bring heavy equipment, manage the utilities, haul away debris, and more.
Having a clearly outlined scope of work ensures that you know what you will be receiving from your demolition contractor. If there are questions about the services in the future, then you can refer back to this document. Additionally, this detailed proposal reduces the likelihood of going over budget because there’s less of a chance that the contractor will add last-minute services or fees to your invoice.
What Materials Will Be Removed and Disposed Of?
Not only does the structure need to come down, but there will be a lot of materials and debris that need to be cleared off the site. Don’t underestimate the time and cost required to haul away concrete, rebar, appliances, and other building materials.
Get clear about which materials will be removed by the demolition contractor. Also, find out if it will be necessary to bring in any other specialists to remove special materials. For example, if hazardous materials are involved (such as asbestos), then extra steps might need to be taken during demolition and disposal.
How Will the Contractor Dispose of Debris?
As you are discussing the types of materials the demolition contractor will be hauling away, also inquire about their practices for dumping the debris. There are two purposes for asking these questions. First, you want to be sure that the dumping and hauling fees are all included in your estimate, to avoid unexpected costs.
Additionally, asking about disposal is important to minimize the impact on the environment. Always work with a demolition contractor that is proactive about reducing pollution. Some contractors will even take a proactive approach by hauling certain materials to recycling centers instead of the junkyard.
What Is the Total Cost of The Project?
Ideally, you should have a full estimate for the project before the work begins. An experienced demolition contractor will be able to review the demolition plans and provide an estimate for labor, machinery, hauling, disposal, and more.
Your proposal should have a detailed breakdown of all of the services and equipment that will be used. Then, you will have a final number: the total amount you should expect to pay for demolition services. Keep in mind that sometimes special or unexpected circumstances occur. But having a written proposal in hand helps you stay on budget as much as possible. If any change orders are necessary, then ask for an updated proposal for the additional work that will be required.
What Safety Precautions Will the Contractor Take During the Demolition Process?
Demolition can be quite dangerous, especially when the heavy materials are coming down. Hiring an experienced and licensed team helps to reduce the risk of injury or damage during the demolition.
Some of the most common safety precautions that should be followed include asbestos testing (if needed), wearing personal protective equipment at all times, only allowing properly trained staff on-site, monitoring noise and vibration, managing traffic movement, maintaining a clean work site, risk assessments, site inspections, and more.
These safety tasks should never feel like a burden or hindrance to the project. A skilled demolition contractor will understand that safety precautions are part of the job, and they will take a proactive approach to ensure safety every step of the way.
How Will the Contractor Protect Your Property from Damage?
Not only is it important to protect workers and other people on the job site, but it’s also essential for the demolition contractor to be careful about protecting your property from damage. For example, if the contractor is taking down a garage or ADU in the back of the property, how will they avoid damage to the main house?
Ask the contractor for full details about the steps to prevent damage to the surrounding area.
Call the Expert Demolition Contractors: Venditti, LLC
When you need a demolition contractor for your upcoming project, then it’s time to reach out to our team for help. Contact us at Venditti, LLC, to learn more about the solutions that we bring to your demolition project.
