How to Choose a Demolition Contractor in NSW

Ask for licences in writing

Any asbestos work in NSW requires a SafeWork NSW licence — Class B for non-friable (bonded) material, Class A for friable. Ask for the class and number and verify it. A contractor who won't put licence details on a quote is telling you something.

Check the insurance actually covers your job

• Public liability appropriate to the value and type of work
• Workers compensation for everyone on your site
• Certificates of currency provided on request, not 'we'll email it later'

Get a fixed price, not an hourly rate

Hourly rates transfer all the risk to you. A fixed quote based on a site inspection means the contractor has thought about access, volume and disposal — and it makes comparing quotes possible. Make sure the quote states what's included: cartage, tip fees, clean-up and any make-good.

Ask where the waste goes

Waste is one of the largest real costs in demolition, so it's the easiest place to cut corners. Ask which facility the material goes to and ask for disposal receipts on completion. Concrete and clean fill should go to recycling; asbestos must go to a facility licensed to accept it.

Look at how they run a site

• A written safe work method statement for the scope
• Dust and noise control planned, not improvised
• Fencing and signage where the public can reach the work
• A single point of contact who answers the phone during the job
• Clear start and finish dates that fit your builder's program

Quick checklist

• Licence class and number supplied and verified
• Insurance certificates sighted
• Fixed written quote with inclusions and exclusions
• Disposal destinations named
• Site inspection done before pricing
• Timeline agreed in writing