A demolition contractor specialises in the safe, planned removal of buildings and structures - from selective internal strip-outs prior to renovation to complete site clearance for new development. Demolition is a highly regulated activity: contractors must hold appropriate qualifications, carry out pre-demolition surveys (including asbestos surveys), comply with HSE CDM Regulations and notify Building Control before structural demolition begins. The National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) is the primary trade body and a reliable quality indicator.
What they do
- Conduct pre-demolition surveys and produce a method statement
- Carry out internal strip-out - removing fixtures, fittings and non-structural elements
- Selective structural demolition - chimney breasts, internal walls, outbuildings
- Full building demolition to ground level
- Coordinate asbestos surveys and HSE-licensed asbestos removal before demolition
- Sort and segregate demolition waste for recycling and disposal
- Arrange skip hire, grab lorries and bulker wagons for waste removal
- Prepare and level sites following demolition
- Notify HSE and Building Control as required by legislation
- Manage dust, noise and traffic impacts during works
When you need one
Any structural demolition - whether a chimney breast removal or full site clearance - requires a specialist contractor, not a general labourer.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Internal strip-out (per day) | £800 - £1,500 |
| Garage or outbuilding demolition | £1,500 - £5,000 |
| Full house demolition | £8,000 - £25,000+ |
| Chimney breast removal | £1,000 - £3,000 |
| Asbestos survey before demolition (required) | £300 - £600 |
| Skip hire | £200 - £400 each |
Asbestos removal costs vary enormously depending on the type, quantity and accessibility of asbestos-containing materials found. Always commission the survey before agreeing a fixed demolition price.
Qualifications to look for
The demolition-specific skills card recognised across the industry. Operatives hold cards at different levels depending on their role and competence.
The senior operatives and supervisors qualification awarded by the NDTG, covering safe systems of work and method statement compliance.
Membership of NFDC is the primary quality indicator. NFDC members must demonstrate financial stability, appropriate insurance and management competence. Find members at nfdc.com.
For licensed asbestos removal - which covers the most hazardous forms including sprayed coatings and lagging - a separate HSE-licensed contractor must be used. Check licences at hse.gov.uk.
How to find a reputable demolition contractor
Frequently asked questions
Is there a difference between a demolition contractor and a skip hire company?
Yes - a demolition contractor carries out the work safely, manages waste streams and holds the required licences for hazardous materials; a skip hire company only provides containers for waste. For any structural demolition or strip-out involving potential asbestos or structural risk, always use a specialist NFDC member.
Do I need planning permission for demolition?
Demolition of a home or any building in a conservation area requires prior notification to and agreement from the local planning authority before works begin. This is done via a Prior Approval application. In most other cases demolition does not require full planning permission, but Building Control must be notified before any structural demolition starts.
Who handles asbestos in demolition?
An asbestos survey (type 2 or type 3 refurbishment and demolition survey) must be completed before any demolition work begins. If asbestos-containing materials are found, a HSE-licensed asbestos removal contractor must remove them before demolition proceeds. This is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.