Residential demolition and site clearing

Homeowners preparing to rebuild, small builders and developers, and owners of knockdown-rebuild or subdivision projects.

A quoted fixed price per job, based on size, access, materials and disposal costs. Extra can be earned from recycling scrap metal, bricks and timber where allowed.

• Safe work around heavy machinery
• Reading building plans and spotting hazards
• Accurate quoting and job planning
• Managing a small crew

• Demolition licensing and high-risk work tickets differ by state and territory, so check with your state's licensing body
• Asbestos is common in older buildings; testing and removal usually need separate licensed professionals, so check your state's rules
• Council or private certifier approval is usually needed before demolition starts, so check requirements for each job
• Public liability, plant and equipment insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
• Waste disposal rules, tip fees and checks for underground services such as gas, water and power
• Heavy, high-risk work with serious safety responsibilities

Startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the excavator, truck or bins you buy or hire, and your insurance and safety gear. These are estimates only and vary with your equipment choices.

Monthly revenue is typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the size and number of jobs, your crew and your pricing. Tip fees and waste disposal costs also need to be allowed for in quotes.

Demolition licensing and high-risk work tickets differ by state and territory, so check with your state's licensing body. Also check asbestos testing and removal rules, council or certifier approval for each job, waste disposal rules and underground services.