Why Demolition Can Take So Long
Scenes of demolition on TV are usually abrupt, with buildings imploding or a crane swinging a wrecking ball at a structure. In real life, demolition isn't quite that fast. Maybe a building still implodes, and maybe a wrecking ball takes out a side or two, but the whole process can be longer. This is for good reason, and it also means that if you want a building demolished, you have to give the demolition company a lot of time. If you don't, you could end up in legal trouble, and you can also end up wasting precious resources.
Utility Shutoffs Aren't Immediate
For one thing, utilities often aren't shut off immediately. If you're about to demolish a building and disconnect utilities, it could be a couple of weeks at least before everything is off. Then you have to be sure that the demolition won't affect active gas or water lines underground because the last thing you want is to have the demolition cut a utility line. Ensuring all is well on the utility front can take a while, even if it seems like a simple task to call and have things disconnected.
You Need Both Permits and Notices
You'll likely need a permit for the demolition, and giving notice to neighbors is usually necessary, too. This is especially the case in HOA-controlled areas where you may need your neighbors' approval to tear down even a backyard structure like a shed. That will vary by development, but don't assume that, because a small structure is in your backyard, you can do what you want with it. If demolishing it will create noise or a mess, your neighbors will need to know ahead of time.
Demolition Includes Recycling and Salvage
Many construction companies that do demolition also look for recyclable materials and salvageable parts. They aren't going to want to just make the building collapse and then cart away rubble. They'll want to inspect the structure, look for parts they can take out whole (such as windows that they might be able to refurbish), and look for materials they can sell for scrap, like copper wiring.
When you arrange for demolition, you will get an approximate schedule, so you'll have some idea of when the demolition will be over. However, you will need to plan ahead because these companies can't just show up and knock down a structure — even a small one. Start the planning process early for best results.
To learn more, contact a demolition service.