Planning to demolish a building or structure? Whether you’re clearing land for new construction or removing a damaged building, preparation is key to a successful and stress-free demolition process. At Philly Strong Demolition, we help property owners across Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Delaware get their sites demolition-ready—safely, legally, and efficiently.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to prepare your property for demolition, along with expert tips from the pros.
1. Hire a Licensed Demolition Contractor
The first and most important step is hiring an experienced and fully licensed demolition company. You’ll want to work with a team that understands local regulations, building codes, and safety procedures.
At Philly Strong Demolition, we’ve built a strong reputation as a trusted demolition contractor in Philadelphia, known for handling both residential and commercial projects with precision.
2. Obtain the Proper Permits
In Philadelphia and most surrounding areas, you must have a demolition permit before tearing down a structure. This typically includes submitting a site plan, proof of insurance, and scheduling inspections.
You can review the full permitting process through the City of Philadelphia’s demolition permit page. If you’re working with Philly Strong Demolition, we’ll help manage the paperwork and file permits on your behalf to keep your project on schedule.
3. Disconnect All Utilities
Before any demolition can begin, all utility services—electric, gas, water, and sewer—must be properly disconnected. Failing to do this not only poses serious hazards but can also lead to fines or permit delays.
We coordinate with utility providers in advance and ensure all services are shut off according to OSHA safety standards.
4. Remove Hazardous Materials
If your property contains asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous materials, these must be removed before demolition begins. This step requires certified professionals to inspect, contain, and safely dispose of these materials per EPA guidelines.
Philly Strong Demolition will assist in identifying any risks and recommending licensed abatement services if needed.
5. Schedule a Pre-Demolition Inspection
A professional inspection ensures the structure is safe to demolish and identifies any structural concerns that may impact how the demolition is carried out. Our team conducts thorough assessments of load-bearing elements and adjacent properties to plan a safe takedown process.
6. Secure the Site & Notify Neighbors
Safety isn’t just about what happens inside the work zone—it’s also about protecting people and properties around it. You may be required to install temporary fencing, signage, and dust-control measures. In Philadelphia, you may also be required to notify neighboring property owners before demolition begins.
Our team will ensure your site meets all safety and compliance requirements, including setup of physical barriers and protection of nearby structures.
7. Plan for Salvage or Recycling
Many demolition projects offer an opportunity to reclaim or recycle materials like wood, brick, or metal. This not only benefits the environment but can reduce your waste disposal costs.
At Philly Strong Demolition, we offer sustainable debris removal and junk hauling solutions, separating recyclable materials wherever possible.
8. Final Cleanup & Site Preparation
Once the building is down, we clear away debris and offer optional excavating services to prep your land for the next stage of development—whether it’s pouring a new foundation, grading, or landscaping.
Explore our full list of demolition and site prep services to learn more.
Your Partner in Safe, Efficient Demolition
Preparing your property for demolition doesn’t have to be complicated when you partner with the right team. Philly Strong Demolition brings over a decade of experience, industry-certified crews, and a deep understanding of local requirements to ensure your demolition project is handled from start to finish—without surprises.
📞 Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free on-site estimate and expert guidance on preparing your property for demolition.
