What Happens During Demolition? A Step-by-Step Guide

Demolition is one of the most dramatic phases of a landed home rebuild — watching your old house come down to make way for your dream home. But behind the drama is a carefully planned process involving permits, safety protocols, and environmental requirements. Here's what to expect.

Before Demolition Begins

Several important steps must be completed before any demolition work starts.

• We obtain the Demolition Permit from BCA, which requires submission of the demolition plan prepared by our in-house Qualified Person.

• Neighbours must be notified in advance.

• Utility disconnections for electricity (SP Group), water (PUB), and gas (City Gas) must be arranged.

• Temporary hoarding is erected around the site to contain dust and debris and protect pedestrians.

• Asbestos checks may be required for older properties built before the 1990s.

The Demolition Process

Demolition of a typical landed home takes 2 to 4 weeks.

The process generally follows this sequence:

• Soft stripping (removal of fixtures, fittings, doors, windows, and any items to be salvaged),

• Mechanical demolition (excavators systematically take down the structure from top to bottom),

• Foundation removal (existing foundations, piles, and underground structures are extracted),

• Debris removal (all demolition waste is sorted and transported to licensed disposal facilities), and

• Site clearing (the site is levelled and prepared for the new foundation works).

What Can Be Salvaged?

Before demolition, consider whether any elements from your existing home are worth keeping.

• Mature trees can sometimes be transplanted or protected during construction.

• Heritage features like ornamental gates, tiles, or timber elements may have sentimental or aesthetic value.

• Fixtures in good condition (air-con units, water heaters, lighting) can be reused or donated.

Discuss salvage options with your builder early — items must be removed before mechanical demolition begins.

Safety and Environmental Compliance

Demolition must comply with BCA safety regulations including

• Dust suppression (water spraying during demolition),

• Noise restrictions (work hours typically 8am to 6pm on weekdays, with restrictions on Saturdays and no work on Sundays and public holidays),

• Structural monitoring of adjacent buildings to detect any movement, and

• Proper disposal of demolition waste at licensed facilities.

Your builder is responsible for all safety measures and environmental compliance throughout the demolition phase.

Hitomo's Demolition Process

Hitomo Construction manages the entire demolition process, from permit applications to site clearing. Our experienced team coordinates utility disconnections, neighbour notifications, and environmental compliance. We ensure the site is properly prepared for the next phase — piling and foundation works — with no delays or surprises.

Planning a Demolition?

Proper demolition sets the foundation for a successful rebuild. Hitomo Construction manages the entire demolition process — from permits and utility disconnection to safe structural removal and site clearance — so your new build starts on the right footing.

Reach out to us for a no-obligation discussion. Contact Hitomo Construction today at +65 8955 9839 or visit hitomoconstruction.com to get started.