So, you think you need to remove your garage, but you have no idea where to start. How much is it going to cost? Is there anything you need to do before and after the demolition process? Do you need a permit? This blog post will go over some FAQs regarding garage demolition.

Why Have a Garage Demolished? Do I Need a Permit?

A garage is demolished if it is no longer needed, if it is broken-down beyond repair and needs to be replaced with a new structure, or if the entire house is being demolished.

As for permits, you will typically need one prior to demolishing your garage. However, each city has different rules and regulations, so check with your local building department before starting the demolition. Your demolition contractor usually handles this for you.

How Much Will it Cost?

Garage demolitions typically range from $3,000 in a rural area to $18,000 in a densely populated city. However, many factors affect the overall cost, such as the size and material of the garage, the foundation and location of the garage, and whether the garage is attached or detached. It may also depend on if the garage contains utility lines (such as electrical or plumbing systems) or hazardous materials (like asbestos or lead paint).

What Should I Do Before the Demolition?

Your garage should be completely emptied of all items, tools, and automobiles. The gas, electricity, and plumbing lines need to be completely cut and capped. Hazardous materials, such as lead paint and asbestos, need to be removed by a professional in order to comply with environmental guidelines, ensure safe removal, and to obtain an asbestos report in order to get the permit from the city.

How Should I Dispose of the Debris?

Some states and cities have certain ordinances that dictate how debris should be disposed of, so be sure to check before starting the demolition project. Most of the debris will be recycled, and things that can’t be recycled will be taken away with a dumpster rental. Your demolition contractor should handle the dumpster rental process, so don’t forget to discuss this with them.

What is the Garage Demolition Process?

1. An asbestos inspection must be conducted in order to get an asbestos report.

2. The demolition contractor obtains a permit from your city.

3. Garage utilities such as water, gas, and electricity are shut off, so that pipes and wires can be safely removed and recycled.

4. The roof, trim, and siding are plied off. With these out of the way, the inner drywall can now be removed.

5. Garage doors and windows are removed. If they are in good condition, they will be placed aside to use later or to sell. If they are in poor condition, they will be recycled.

6. The framing is taken apart with a pry bar and hammer, rather than destroyed with heavy equipment. This saves time and money and allows these materials to be reused.

7. If you don’t wish to leave the foundation in place, the concrete slab is broken up and removed. Otherwise, the remaining slab must be cracked for drainage.

8. A final inspection is conducted by the city in order to close the open permit.

Can I Do the Garage Removal Myself?

Though you could potentially do it yourself, it’s best to rely on a professional demolition team to handle it for you. An inexperienced homeowner may end up doing it improperly, which could cause costly damages and complications later down the line, to not only your property, but to your neighbors. A DIY demolition job can also result in serious injuries.

At Morgan Services Group Corp, we have the many years of training and hands-on experience it takes to safely and effectively tear down structures. Call on us for your next garage demolition project!