What does a demolition scope of work include?

It defines exactly what's being torn out, what's being protected, how debris is handled, timeline, safety precautions, and payment terms. It's critical for avoiding 'scope creep' during demo.

Do I need a permit for demolition?

Most municipalities require a demolition permit, especially for structural work. Interior selective demo may or may not require a permit depending on your area.

What about asbestos and lead paint?

Buildings built before 1980 should be tested for asbestos and lead paint before demolition. If present, licensed abatement must be done before demo can proceed.

Who disconnects the utilities?

Utility companies disconnect services at the street. The GC or demo contractor coordinates this. Interior utility disconnections may be done by the respective trade (electrician, plumber).

Can I modify this template?

Yes. Adjust for your specific job — interior gut demo, full building teardown, or concrete removal each have different requirements.

Demolition Scope of Work Template | Free Download 2026

Demolition looks simple from the outside, but there's a lot that needs to be defined — what's coming down, what's staying, how debris is handled, and what hazards might be hiding in the walls. A scope of work prevents the "I thought you were removing that" conversations. This template works for selective interior demo, full structural teardown, and everything in between. It's written for demo contractors who need a clear agreement with their client or GC. Adjust it for your job and you're ready to go.

Project Overview

This scope covers demolition work including selective interior demolition, structural teardown, hazardous material coordination, debris removal, and site cleanup.

Typical Projects Include:

Interior selective demolition for remodel
Full building demolition
Kitchen or bathroom gut demo
Commercial tenant space demo
Concrete or asphalt removal
Pool or deck demolition

Scope of Work

Planning & Prep

Task	Description
Site Assessment	Walk the site to identify what's being removed, what's staying, and any potential hazards.
Utility Disconnect	Coordinate disconnection of electrical, plumbing, gas, and HVAC before demo begins.
Permits	Pull required demolition permits and schedule inspections.
Protection	Protect finishes, surfaces, and areas that are NOT being demolished.

Demolition

Task	Description
Selective Demo	Remove specified walls, ceilings, flooring, fixtures, and finishes as defined in scope.
Structural Demo	Remove structural elements as specified — walls, framing, concrete, etc.
Debris Handling	Load debris into dumpsters or trucks. Sort recyclable materials if required.

Cleanup & Closeout

Task	Description
Site Cleanup	Sweep, vacuum, and remove all debris from the work area. Leave the space broom clean.
Dumpster Removal	Arrange haul-off of all dumpsters and debris containers.
Final Walkthrough	Walk the site with the client or GC to confirm all demo work is complete.

Timeline & Milestones

Demo timelines vary widely based on scope. Interior demo is fast; full building teardown takes longer.

Phase	Duration	Description
Prep & Permits	1-5 days	Utility disconnects, permits, and protection setup.
Demolition	1-10 days	Demo work and debris loading. Duration depends on scope.
Cleanup	1-2 days	Final cleanup and dumpster removal.

Roles & Responsibilities

Client / General Contractor

•Clearly define what is and isn't being demolished
•Coordinate utility disconnections
•Provide site access and dumpster placement area
•Process payments per the agreed schedule

Demolition Contractor

•Pull demo permits
•Protect areas not being demolished
•Perform all demolition work safely
•Handle debris removal and disposal
•Leave the site broom clean

Materials & Equipment

Protection

•Plastic sheeting and dust barriers
•Floor protection (ram board or similar)
•Caution tape and signage

Tools

•Reciprocating saws and demo hammers
•Pry bars and hand tools
•Skid steer or mini excavator (for larger jobs)

Disposal

•Dumpster or roll-off container
•Debris bags
•Dump fees and hauling

Quality Control Standards

Scope Accuracy

Only specified items are removed — nothing extra gets demolished.

Clean Cuts

Demo lines are clean and straight where new work will tie in.

Protection Integrity

Protected areas remain undamaged throughout the demo process.

Safety Protocols

Hazmat Awareness

Test for asbestos and lead paint before demolishing older buildings. Use licensed abatement if present.

Structural Safety

Shore or brace adjacent structures when removing load-bearing elements.

Dust Control

Use dust barriers and wet methods to control dust. Wear respirators as needed.

PPE

Hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe boots required at all times.

Project Documentation

Signed contract and scope of work
Demolition permit
Hazmat test results (if applicable)
Utility disconnect confirmations
Dumpster weight tickets
Completion photos

Financial Terms

Payment Structure

Demo is often a short-duration job. Payment may be split between deposit and completion.

Terms & Conditions

•Deposit due at contract signing (typically 30-50%)
•Final payment due after demo and cleanup are complete
•Dumpster and disposal fees may be billed separately
•Change orders for unexpected conditions (hidden walls, hazmat, etc.)
•Payment due within 30 days of invoice

Acceptance Criteria & Sign-Off

The project is considered complete when the following criteria are met:

1All specified items demolished and removed
2Protected areas undamaged
3Site is broom clean
4All debris hauled off
5Permits closed out
6Client walkthrough completed

Frequently Asked Questions

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Demolition Scope of Work Template