Whether you’re preparing to renovate your home, clear a commercial site or remove an unsafe structure, hiring the right demolition contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Demolition is not just about tearing things down — it requires strategy, safety measures, permits and waste management planning.
By asking the right questions before work begins, you can avoid costly delays and ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
In this guide, we explore the top questions you should ask any contractor before signing a contract. These questions will help you determine whether a contractor is qualified, experienced and capable of meeting your project’s unique needs.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
One of the first and most crucial questions to ask is whether the contractor holds the appropriate licences for demolition work in your state or territory. Every state in Australia has specific licensing requirements and working with an unlicensed contractor can leave you liable for damages or safety breaches.
Equally important is insurance. Confirm that the contractor holds both public liability insurance and workers’ compensation cover. These policies protect you in the event of accidents, injuries or property damage. A reputable contractor will have no hesitation in providing proof of current licensing and insurance cover.
What Experience Do You Have With This Type of Demolition?
Not all demolition projects are alike. Residential demolition, for example, differs greatly from industrial or commercial jobs. Some projects involve partial demolition or require delicate deconstruction near protected structures or utilities. Asking about the contractor’s experience with projects similar to yours will help you assess whether they can handle the technical requirements and potential risks.
You may also want to ask for references from recent clients or examples of completed jobs. An experienced demolition contractor will be able to talk through their past work, explain the methods used and highlight any challenges they successfully overcame.
What Is Included in Your Quote?
Demolition quotes can vary significantly depending on the scope of work, site conditions and included services. Before you agree to proceed, ask for a detailed quote that outlines exactly what is covered. This should include preparation work, demolition, waste removal, asbestos or hazardous material handling and site cleanup.
Clarify whether the quote is fixed or subject to change and ask about any additional charges that may apply — such as permit fees, traffic management or after-hours work. A professional contractor will be transparent about pricing and provide clear explanations of all costs involved.
Do You Handle Permits and Approvals?
In many cases, demolition projects require council approval or specific permits. These can include planning permits, building permits and environmental clearances, depending on the nature of the structure and its location. Failing to secure the correct approvals can result in fines, project delays or legal action.
Ask whether the contractor will assist with or manage the permit application process on your behalf. Many experienced contractors will be familiar with local council requirements and able to expedite the process by lodging the correct paperwork and liaising with regulators.
How Will You Manage Waste and Recycling?
A responsible contractor should have a clear waste management plan. Demolition generates large volumes of rubble, timber, metal and other materials. In Australia, increasing emphasis is placed on recycling and sustainability, with many councils requiring specific waste diversion targets.
Ask how the contractor plans to sort, recycle and dispose of materials. Will waste be taken to a licensed facility? Are any materials being reused or salvaged? A contractor committed to environmentally responsible practices will be able to explain how they minimise landfill and maximise recycling outcomes.
How Will You Ensure Site Safety?
Demolition work can be dangerous without the proper controls in place. From falling debris to structural instability and exposure to hazardous substances, a range of risks must be actively managed. Site safety should be non-negotiable.
Request information about the safety procedures the contractor follows. Do they have a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for the job? Will safety barriers, signage and protective gear be used? Ask who will be responsible for supervising the site and ensuring compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations. The answers will reflect the contractor’s professionalism and commitment to keeping workers and bystanders safe.
What Is the Project Timeline?
Timelines are important in any construction or renovation project. Delays in demolition can push back the entire schedule and impact other contractors or stakeholders. Ask the demolition contractor to provide a realistic timeframe for each stage of the job — including preparation, demolition, cleanup and final inspection.
It’s also wise to ask how the contractor handles weather disruptions, unexpected discoveries (such as asbestos) or equipment breakdowns. The more you understand about their workflow and contingency planning, the better prepared you’ll be if delays occur.
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