Demolition Contracts

Full Description

This demolition contract template is a ready-to-edit agreement between a property owner and a contractor for demolishing buildings or structures. It can also be used as a proposal, so you can price the job and turn it into a signed contract with the same document.

What is a demolition contract?

A demolition contract is a written agreement that sets out what will be demolished, how and when the work will be done, and how the contractor will be paid. It describes the property and structures to be removed, the scope of work, start and completion dates, equipment and materials, and payment terms. A clear contract protects both the owner and the contractor by setting expectations before machines arrive on site and reducing disputes about scope, schedule and cost.

When to use it

• Full demolition of a house, garage, shed or other residential structure
• Commercial or industrial building demolition
• Partial demolition or selective removal before a renovation
• Pricing a demolition job as a proposal for an owner to accept
• Subcontracting demolition scope from a general contractor to a demolition contractor

What’s included

The download is an editable Word document (.docx). The agreement template contains:

• A detailed description of the property and structures to be demolished, and the scope of works
• Dates of commencement and expected completion of the demolition
• Materials and equipment to be used
• How much, and how, the contractor will be paid for the project

How to fill it out

1. Enter the names and addresses of the property owner and the contractor.
2. Describe the property and each structure to be demolished. Be specific about what stays, such as foundations, slabs, trees, fences or utilities.
3. Write the scope of works, including site clearing, debris removal and how the site will be left.
4. Set the start date and expected completion date.
5. List the equipment and materials the contractor will use.
6. Enter the contract price and payment terms, such as deposit, progress payments and final payment.
7. Review the document with both parties, make any edits and sign.

Check these items before you sign

• Who obtains the demolition permit and arranges utility disconnections
• Whether a hazardous materials survey, such as for asbestos or lead, is needed and who pays for removal
• How debris will be disposed of or recycled
• Insurance, site security and protection of neighboring property
• Have the final agreement reviewed by a lawyer familiar with construction law where you work

Related templates and guides

• Demolition Proposal and Contract
• Demolition & Sitework Cost Estimate Excel Template
• Demolition Safety Checklist
• Common Types of Construction Contracts And Their Use
• Asbestos: Treatment and Disposal

Frequently asked questions

What should a demolition contract include?

At a minimum: the parties, a description of the property and structures, the scope of work, start and completion dates, equipment, price and payment terms. Many contracts also cover permits, utilities, hazardous materials, debris disposal, insurance, site restoration and what happens if hidden conditions are found.

Who is responsible for demolition permits?

It depends on the agreement and local rules. Often the contractor applies for the permit, but in some places the owner must apply or sign. State clearly in the contract who obtains the permit, who arranges utility disconnections and who pays the fees.

Is a demolition contract template legally binding?

A signed contract can be binding once both parties agree to its terms, but whether it is enforceable depends on its content and the law where the work takes place. Use the template as a starting point and have a lawyer review it, especially for large or complex jobs.

What is the difference between a demolition proposal and a demolition contract?

A proposal is the contractor’s offer: scope, price and terms for the owner to consider. A contract is the agreement both parties sign once terms are accepted. Many small demolition jobs use one document that starts as a proposal and becomes the contract when signed.

Does a demolition contract cover asbestos removal?

Only if you write it in. Asbestos and other hazardous materials usually need to be identified before demolition and removed by qualified contractors under local regulations. The contract should say who arranges the survey, who removes the material and how the cost is handled.