Demolitions are often necessary to pave a blank slate for your new development. Although demolition work, from an outsider’s perspective, can be seen as a very straightforward task, there are many aspects to take into consideration and a lot of planning to complete before any demolition work takes place. The demolition of a building can be a dangerous event if not handled appropriately. You may need to demolish a building for a variety of reasons, but whatever these reasons are you’ll have to serve a demolition notice – a demolition project cannot start without it.
What is a Section 80 Demolition Notice?
First featured in the 1984 Building Act, the notice represents the intention to demolish a whole or part of a building. The persons with the intention to do so must notify their local authority before the work is carried out. There are three exceptions to this law, however. These include:
- If the demolition is occurring as a result of a Demolition Order
- If the demolition is a shed, greenhouse, conservatory, or any building that has a cubic content of less than 1750 cubic feet
- If the demolition is for an agricultural building (unless it is attached to another building)
Who needs to be notified?
If you’re planning a demolition, no matter what type of demolition it may be, there are always other parties you’ll need to notify. It’s important you inform the relevant people, as if you begin destroying a building without doing so, you may cause more problems in the long run and it might cost you more money.
Electricity
Cutting off the electricity to the building you’re demolishing is an easy task, simply contact the electricity supplier and a member of staff will do this for you.
Plumbing
If you begin demolishing a building before you’ve disconnected the plumbing, this will not only cause issues for your new property but also the surrounding properties. Disconnect the plumbing to secure a smooth transition.
Asbestos
You may come across asbestos in older buildings that have yet to be removed. It’s important you get a professional asbestos removal company to remove it before you begin the demolition, as disturbing this material can cause a variety of fatal health issues.
When should a demolition notice be issued?
It should be issued to Local Authority Building Control at least 6 weeks before demolition begins. The Local Authority Building Control might then decide to issue specifications on the conditions of the demolition that need to be met to maintain the safety of the public and properties surrounding the location of the demolition.
Down To Earth Demolition is one of the leading demolition contractors, providing a wide range of demolition services, from asbestos removal to site clearance. With 30 years of experience in the industry, we have the know-how to complete the job to a high standard every time. For more information on our services, please get in touch with a member of our team today.