3 Tips For Homeowners Considering A Demolition Or Major Renovation Project

When a home is very old and needs major repairs, it may be more cost effective for a homeowner to simply demolish it and build a new one on the same property. Because the real estate market is so competitive in many areas, it can also be a better option to simply renovate a home whose layout no longer works for a family than to try to sell it and buy a new home.

If you're a homeowner considering either a demolition or major renovation project, consider some very important tips and reminders you'll want to keep in mind before your project even begins.

1. Recycle as much material as possible

Unfortunately many materials tossed in a rubbish bin during a home demolition or renovation are recyclable, but still wind up in landfills simply because homeowners did not take the time or effort to remove them from their bin. There are a few simple ways to recycle your materials; one is to remove these materials by hand before your demolition begins. Take out kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, mirrors, and window panes and put those in a separate bin before you demolish.

Another way to ensure you recycle as much as possible is to rent your rubbish bin from a company that goes through your tossed items and pulls out what can be recycled. You can also call outside salvage companies to go through your home or your rubbish bin and remove recyclable items for you.

2. Have your home checked for asbestos, mold, and lead paint

Asbestos, mold and lead paint are very dangerous to those on a demolition site and even to surrounding neighbors. It's always recommended, and in some cases even legally required, that you have your home checked for asbestos or mold before you begin demolition. Check for lead paint as well since this should be removed from your rubbish bin and disposed of by professionals.

3. Be sure you have all your permits in place before work begins

Even for a home renovation job, you may need special permits before work begins. This can include permits for your rubbish bin and any heavy-duty equipment you rent. Failure to secure these and display them properly can mean hefty fines from your city. If you're not sure of the permits needed, you can typically ask a company that rents rubbish bins or other equipment as they are usually familiar with these types of jobs. If you're hiring help to handle your demolition, ask them if they know the permits needed and if they can assist with your paperwork.