Small Structure Demolition: $3,000-$8,000 AUD (1-3 days) - Garages, sheds, small outbuildings up to 50m²

Single Storey House Demolition: $12,000-$25,000 AUD (3-7 days) - Full single level home demolition 100-200m²

Double Storey House Demolition: $20,000-$40,000 AUD (1-2 weeks) - Two-story residential demolition 200-300m²

Commercial Building Demolition: $40,000-$150,000+ AUD (2-4 weeks) - Commercial structures and complexes 300m²+

All demolition work in Adelaide requires licensed contractors with proper insurance and safety certifications

Asbestos testing is mandatory for buildings constructed before 1990 per WorkSafe regulations

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Week 1-2: Council permits and utility disconnection (preparation phase)

Week 2-3: Asbestos testing and removal if required (safety compliance)

Week 3-4: Structural demolition and waste removal (active demolition)

Week 4-5: Site clearing, leveling and final inspection (completion)

Service area: Adelaide, SA

Local demolition specialists familiar with Adelaide building codes and regulations

Average response time: 24 hours for initial quotes in Adelaide

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Demolition Services Costs Adelaide 2026

Complete pricing guide for demolitions

3 min read

Quick Answer

Demolitions in Adelaide typically cost $15,750 to $36,750 for a standard 5-8m² demolition. Budget small structure demolitiones with new tapware, re-grouting, and painting start from $5,250-$12,600, while luxury spa-style demolitions featuring freestanding baths, walk-in rain structures, underfloor heating, and premium equipment from brands like Victoria + Albert, TOTO, or Geberit can exceed $52,500. Average timeline: 3-6 weeks from demolition to completion. Waterproofing (WorkSafe regulations) requires a mandatory 7-day drying period before demolition work can commence. Required trades: Licensed builder, certified waterproofer (WorkSafe regulations), plumber (AS 3500), electrician (AS/NZS 3000), tiler, and glazier for structure screens.

Updated January 2026 24,500+ Australians served
1

Waterproofing is mandatory under WorkSafe regulations for all wet areas including structure recesses, bath hobs, and floor transitions. Budget $1,575-$3,675 with a non-negotiable 7-day cure time

2

Tile costs range from budget ceramics ($30-$60/m²) to porcelain ($60-$120/m²) to natural stone like marble or travertine ($150-$400/m²) plus $68-$126/m² installation

3

Vanity options: flatpack vanities ($300-$600), wall-hung units from Loughlin/Timberline ($800-$2,500), custom stone-top ($2,500-$6,000), bespoke joinery ($3,000-$8,000)

4

Structure screens: framed ($400-$800), semi-frameless ($800-$1,500), frameless glass from Stegbar or Streamline ($1,500-$3,500 installed)

5

ROI on demolitions in Adelaide averages 60-80% of investment, with second demolitions and residential demolitions adding significant value to family homes

6

Utilities relocation in Adelaide typically costs $1,575-$5,250 depending on concrete cutting requirements and distance from existing waste lines

Price Comparison

Demolition Services Cost Guide Adelaide 2026

Comprehensive pricing for all demolition types

Demolition Services Price Guide - By Scope & Quality

Demolition Type Price Range What's Included
Cosmetic Refresh
$5,250-$12,600 New structures, site, toilet, tapware, fresh paint, retain existing layout and utilities
Standard Full
$15,750-$26,250 Full waterproofing, quality structures, new structure screen, site, toilet, heated towel rail, updated lighting
Premium
$31,500-$47,250 Custom stone site top, frameless structure, feature structures, underfloor heating, quality equipment, minor layout changes
Luxury Spa
$52,500-$105,000+ Freestanding bath, rainfall structure, natural stone, custom joinery, smart mirrors, heated floors, full layout redesign

*Prices include all materials, labour, waterproofing, and installation. Costs vary by location, demolition size (standard 5-8m²), and material selections. Timeline: 2-4 weeks.

$12,600-$36,750
Adelaide Price Range
Average demolition cost
60-80%
ROI in Adelaide
Property value added
3-6 Weeks
Typical Timeline
Standard demolition
15-25%
Average Savings
By comparing quotes
Adelaide Demolition Specialists

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Demolition Services Cost Adelaide 2026

Adelaide demolitions offer excellent value with access to quality suppliers and experienced contractors across the Greater Adelaide region.

Asbestos certified Quality structures Modern equipment
$12,600-$36,750
Adelaide average range
2026 Pricing Guide

How Much Does a Demolition Services Cost in Adelaide?

Find the right package for your budget and goals

Small Structure Demolition

Entry Level

Garages, sheds and small outbuildings: complete demolition, waste removal and site clearing

Up to 50m² Waste removal Site cleared
$3,150-$8,400
1-3 days
MOST POPULAR

Single Storey House Demolition

Full single level home demolition: asbestos testing, permits, complete demolition and waste removal

100-200m² Asbestos tested All permits
$12,600-$26,250
3-7 days

Double Storey House Demolition

Premium

Two-story residential demolition: full asbestos management, structural demolition and complete site clearing

200-300m² Complex permits Full clearance
$21,000-$42,000
1-2 weeks

Commercial Building Demolition

COMMERCIAL

Large-scale commercial structures: complex permits, extensive safety requirements and professional project management

300m²+ buildings Complex permits Safety managed
$42,000-$157,500+
2-4 weeks
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Complete Demolition Package

What's Included in a Professional Demolition Quote in Adelaide?

Every component handled by licensed professionals from start to finish

Site Assessment & Planning

Phase 1

Professional site inspection, asbestos assessment, and demolition method planning.

Site inspection Asbestos test Method plan

Permits & Approvals

Phase 2

Council demolition permits, neighbor notifications, and all required compliance approvals.

Council permit Notifications Approvals

Asbestos Removal

Phase 3

Licensed asbestos removal, WorkSafe notifications, and clearance certificates by certified professionals.

Licensed removal Clearance cert

Utility Disconnection

Phase 4

Safe disconnection of electricity, gas, water, and sewerage by licensed professionals.

Electricity Gas & water

Structural Demolition

Phase 5

Complete building demolition using excavators and specialized equipment with dust control.

Excavator work Dust control Safety managed

Waste Removal & Recycling

Phase 6

Complete waste removal, material sorting, and recycling at EPA-licensed facilities.

Waste removal Material sorting EPA disposal

Site Clearing & Leveling

Phase 7

Complete site clearing, leveling, and preparation for next stage of development.

Site cleared Ground leveled Ready for build

Final Inspection & Handover

Complete

Council final inspection, completion certificate, and site handover ready for next stage.

Final inspection Clearance cert Site handover
All trades coordinated by your project manager | Get a Full Quote
WorkSafe Regulations Compliance

Australian Demolition Safety Compliance Standards (WorkSafe Regulations: 2021)

All demolitions must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and WorkSafe regulations safety compliance standards

Why Safety Compliance Matters

Legal Requirement

Mandatory for all demolition sites

Worker Safety

Protects demolition crews

Public Safety

Protects neighbors & public

Insurance Coverage

Required for valid insurance

Key WorkSafe Regulations Requirements

1

Asbestos Management: Mandatory testing and certified removal for pre-1990 buildings

2

Site Safety: Secure fencing, signage, and dust control measures required

3

Structural Engineer: Assessment required for buildings over 10m or adjacent structures

4

Licensed Contractors: Demolition license and public liability insurance mandatory

5

Waste Disposal: EPA-licensed facilities for all demolition waste and hazardous materials

Always Verify Credentials

Ensure your contractor has a valid demolition license and public liability insurance. Request asbestos clearance certificates and completion documentation - essential for council approval and insurance.

Decision Guide

Should I Demolish or Renovate My House in Adelaide? Complete Decision Guide

Make the right choice for your property with this comprehensive comparison

Choose Demolition

Start fresh with a clean slate

When It Makes Sense

  • Major foundation issues: Repair costs exceed 60% of rebuild cost
  • Extensive asbestos: Throughout building - removal + renovation exceeds demo + rebuild
  • Beyond lifespan: 60+ years old with minimal maintenance
  • Flawed layout: Can't be reconfigured cost-effectively
  • Land value > building: Location worth more than structure
  • Development plans: Subdivision or multi-unit development
Typical Cost Range

Demolition: $12K-$40K

New Build: $200K-$500K+

Total investment higher but modern, compliant home

Choose Renovation

Work with what you have

When It Makes Sense

  • Sound structure: Good bones with cosmetic issues only
  • Heritage value: Character worth preserving, architectural significance
  • Limited budget: Renovations can be staged over time
  • Quality construction: Solid materials, good craftsmanship
  • Established area: Neighborhood character important
  • Functional layout: Floor plan works, just needs updating
Typical Cost Range

Cosmetic reno: $30K-$80K

Major reno: $100K-$250K

Preserve character, potentially lower cost

Real Case Study: Western Sydney Family

1970s brick home with foundation cracks, extensive asbestos, outdated layout. Renovation quote: $180K (structural, asbestos removal, full reno). Demolition + rebuild: $220K total ($25K demo + $195K new build). Chose demolition - saved $60K long-term, gained modern energy-efficient home, 25-year warranty vs. patched-up old house.

Better value: Modern home for $40K more
Demolition Timeline

How Long Does House Demolition Take in Adelaide?

From permit application to cleared site - complete timeline breakdown

1

Permits & Council Approval (2-6 weeks)

Submit demolition application, asbestos survey, engineering reports, neighbor notifications, wait for approval

2

Asbestos Testing & Removal (1-2 weeks if required)

Licensed assessor inspection, lab testing, professional removal if found, clearance certificate. Buildings pre-1990 typically have asbestos

3

Utility Disconnection (3-5 days)

Electricity, gas, water, sewerage disconnected and capped. Must book 5-10 business days in advance. Safety critical

4

Actual Demolition Work (2-10 days)

Single-storey: 2-3 days. Double-storey: 5-7 days. Commercial: 1-3 weeks. Includes structural demolition, material sorting for recycling

5

Waste Removal & Site Clearing (1-3 days)

Remove all debris, sort for recycling (70-90% recycled), dispose remaining waste, clear site completely

Final Inspection & Handover

Council final inspection, site safety check, clearance certificate issued, ready for next stage (rebuild/sale/development)

Factors That Extend Timeline

  • Weather delays: Rain can halt work for safety (add 3-7 days)
  • Asbestos discovery: Unplanned removal adds 1-3 weeks
  • Council delays: Permit processing varies by council (2-8 weeks)
  • Access issues: Difficult site access slows work (add 2-5 days)
  • Heritage approvals: Heritage properties need extra approvals (add 4-12 weeks)
Legal Requirements

Demolition Permits & Compliance Requirements in Adelaide

Everything you need to know about demolition permits and regulations in Australia

Council Approval Requirements by State

NSW

Development Application (DA) required for most demolitions. Complying Development Certificate (CDC) available for straightforward residential demolitions.

Timeline: DA 4-8 weeks, CDC 2-4 weeks

VIC

Building permit from local council or private building surveyor required. Planning permit may also be needed in some areas.

Timeline: 3-6 weeks processing

QLD

Development approval required from local council. Self-assessable for simple residential demolitions in most councils.

Timeline: 2-5 weeks

WA/SA/Other

Demolition permit required from local council. Varies by council - some exempt small structures under 10m².

Timeline: 2-6 weeks

Asbestos Regulations (Critical)

  • !

    Mandatory testing: All buildings built before 1990 require asbestos assessment by licensed assessor ($300-$800)

  • !

    Licensed removal: Only Class A/B licensed removalists can remove asbestos. Homeowners cannot DIY asbestos removal

  • !

    WorkSafe notification: Must notify WorkSafe 5 days before asbestos removal work commences

  • !

    Clearance certificate: Independent hygienist must issue clearance before demolition can proceed

  • Penalties: Up to $300,000 fines for illegal asbestos disturbance. Criminal charges possible for serious breaches

Utility Disconnection

  • Electricity: $200-$400, book 5-10 days ahead
  • Gas: $300-$600 for disconnection & capping
  • Water: $150-$300 to cap at meter
  • Sewerage: Assessment required

⚠ All utilities must be disconnected before work starts - legal requirement

Neighbor Notification

  • Legal requirement: Notify adjoining properties 7-14 days before work
  • Include: Start date, duration, working hours, contact details
  • Address concerns: Noise, dust management, site access
  • Hours: Typically 7am-6pm weekdays, 8am-1pm Saturdays

Post-Demolition Requirements

Final Inspection

Council inspector verifies work completed as approved

Clearance Certificate

Official completion certificate for records & future sale

Site Safety

Fencing, erosion control if required by council

Detailed Comparison

Demolition Types Compared in Adelaide: Which Do You Need?

Detailed breakdown to help you choose the right demolition approach

Full House Demolition

Complete structure removal - most common

$12K-$40K MOST POPULAR

Advantages

  • Complete fresh start: No structural compromises
  • Ideal for knockdown rebuild: Build exactly what you want
  • Best for major issues: Foundation, asbestos throughout
  • Modern compliance: New build meets all current codes

Considerations

  • Highest cost: $12K-$25K single, $20K-$40K double
  • Longest timeline: 2-4 weeks total process
  • Complex approvals: More permits required
  • Neighbor impact: Noise, dust, disruption

Best For

Knockdown rebuilds, major structural issues, extensive asbestos, aged properties (60+ years), land value exceeds building value, development projects

Partial Demolition

Remove extensions or sections only

$8K-$25K

Advantages

  • Lower cost: Only pay for what needs removing
  • Retain good structure: Keep sound parts of building
  • Faster timeline: 1-3 weeks typically

Considerations

  • Engineering required: Structural reports needed
  • Matching materials: Difficult to match existing
  • Complex work: More precision needed

Best For

Removing poor extensions, downsizing home, dangerous sections only, second storey removal, keeping heritage facade

Internal Strip-Out

Remove interior only - shell remains

$3K-$12K

Advantages

  • Fastest option: 3-7 days typically
  • Most affordable: Lowest cost option
  • Keep structure: Roof and walls remain intact

Considerations

  • Limited scope: External issues remain
  • Structural unknowns: May find issues during work
  • Not comprehensive: Half measure approach

Best For

Complete renovations, commercial fit-outs, office refurbishments, converting buildings to different use, retail makeovers

Garage/Shed Demolition

Small outbuilding removal

$2K-$8K

Advantages

  • Very quick: 1-3 days complete
  • Affordable: Small structure, low cost
  • Simple permits: Often exempt from approval
  • Minimal disruption: Small footprint

Considerations

  • Asbestos possible: Pre-1990 sheds may have asbestos
  • Access issues: Tight backyards can complicate removal
  • Slab removal: Concrete slab adds cost ($500-$2K)

Best For

Clearing land for landscaping, building new garage, removing unsafe structures, creating outdoor space, pool construction prep

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Verified Reviews

What Adelaide Customers Say about Demolition Services

Real demolition services reviews from verified Adelaide customers

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Based on 188 verified reviews

Demolition Services reviews in Adelaide. 188 verified customer reviews with 5.0/5 average rating. Real experiences from local customers.

Michelle T.

Adelaide, SA

Verified

Complete house demolition handled perfectly! The team managed everything from permits to final site clearing. Asbestos testing and removal done professionally. Site left clean and level. Highly recommend for anyone in Adelaide.

House Demolition

David L.

Adelaide, SA

Verified

Got 3 quotes through The Wombat™ and saved over $5,000 compared to the first contractor I contacted directly. The winning contractor was professional, efficient, and completed our demolition in 5 days.

Single Storey Demolition

Sarah K.

Adelaide, SA

Verified

Our double storey demolition exceeded expectations. Contractor handled council permits, asbestos removal, and complete site clearing. The project manager kept us updated throughout. Ready for our new build now!

Double Storey Demolition
5.0/5 Average Rating 188 Customer Reviews Wombat™ Verified Adelaide Area Demolition Services

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FAQ

Demolition Services FAQs for Adelaide

Demolition costs in Adelaide vary by project size: Small structures (sheds, garages) $3,150-$8,400 up to 50m². Single storey houses $12,600-$26,250 for 100-200m². Double storey houses $21,000-$42,000 for 200-300m². Commercial buildings $42,000-$157,500+ for 300m²+. Key factors: building size, construction type (timber cheaper than brick/concrete), asbestos presence (adds $2,100-$31,500+ for removal), site accessibility (poor access increases costs 20-50%). Prices include permits, demolition, equipment, waste removal, and site clearing.
Yes, most demolitions in Adelaide require council approval. Always required for: residential homes, structures over 10m², buildings in heritage areas, properties with asbestos (mandatory notification), demolitions affecting neighboring properties. Sometimes exempt: small sheds under 10m² (check with Adelaide council), interior fit-outs without structural changes. Your demolition contractor typically handles all permits. Processing: 2-6 weeks. Costs: $525-$2,100 for residential. Never start without approval - penalties can reach $50,000+ and you may be forced to stop work.
Demolition timelines in Adelaide: Small structures 1-3 days for complete demolition and clearing. Single storey houses 3-7 days including utility disconnection, demolition, and site leveling. Double storey houses 1-2 weeks with additional time for multi-level work. Commercial buildings 2-4 weeks depending on size and complexity. Add time for: council permit approval (2-6 weeks before work), asbestos testing (1 week for results), asbestos removal if present (1-3 weeks), utility disconnections (book 5-10 days ahead). Weather can delay work during wet periods in Adelaide.
Asbestos testing is mandatory in Adelaide for buildings before 1990. Process: licensed assessor inspects and tests materials ($315-$840, 3-7 days for results). If asbestos found: WorkSafe notification required, licensed removalist must remove before demolition, costs $2,100-$8,400 for small amounts, $8,400-$31,500+ for extensive asbestos. Bonded asbestos (sheeting) less expensive than friable (loose). Adds 1-3 weeks to timeline. Never disturb asbestos yourself - penalties up to $300,000.
Yes, salvaging materials in Adelaide can reduce costs by $1,050-$5,250+. Valuable items: timber floorboards ($21-$84/m² resale), bricks (20-60c each cleaned), roof tiles ($1-$3 each), doors/windows ($53-$525 each), hardwood beams. Inform contractor beforehand - they'll carefully remove items, adding 1-3 days to timeline. Some contractors offer credit against demolition cost for salvaged materials. Heritage materials have highest value.
Property owners arrange utility disconnections in Adelaide, but contractors typically coordinate. Process: Electricity disconnection by provider (book 5-10 days ahead, fee $210-$420), gas disconnection and capping ($315-$630), water capped at meter ($158-$315), sewerage assessed. All utilities MUST be disconnected before demolition - legal requirement and safety critical. Costs typically included in professional Adelaide demolition quotes.
Verify Adelaide demolition contractor credentials: (1) Check state demolition license, (2) Confirm public liability insurance ($20 million minimum), (3) Verify asbestos removal license (Class A or B), (4) Review demolition portfolio with similar Adelaide projects, (5) Check recent client references, (6) Verify Adelaide council permit handling experience, (7) Confirm waste disposal at EPA-licensed facilities, (8) Review detailed quotes with scope breakdown, (9) Check online reviews and complaints, (10) Ensure WorkCover insurance for employees. The Wombat™ pre-vets all Adelaide contractors for compliance and experience.
Site accessibility significantly impacts Adelaide demolition costs. Good access (3m+ wide driveway, level ground, clear overhead) allows standard pricing. Poor access challenges: narrow driveways (<3m) require smaller equipment (+20-40% cost), overhead powerlines need manual methods (+30-50%), steep slopes need specialized equipment (+25-40%), no street access requires crane work (+40-60%), close neighbors require careful work (+15-30%). Dense Adelaide urban areas cost more due to constraints. Always inform contractors of access issues during quoting for accurate pricing.
After demolition in Adelaide, contractors leave sites cleared and leveled. Included: all debris removed to EPA-licensed facilities, site leveled to grade, surface hazards cleared, final safety inspection. NOT included: detailed site surveys, soil testing, fine-grading for landscaping, topsoil/grass seeding ($525-$2,100). Site is ready for: new construction (requires plans and permits), subdivision (needs surveyor and Adelaide council approval), holding/selling as vacant land. Some councils require sediment control fencing.
Complete Adelaide demolition services include: (1) Site assessment and quote, (2) Asbestos testing for pre-1990 buildings (mandatory), (3) Council permit applications and approvals, (4) Utility disconnection coordination, (5) Asbestos removal if present with clearance certificate, (6) Material salvage if requested, (7) Complete structural demolition, (8) Waste sorting and removal to EPA-licensed facilities, (9) Site clearing and leveling, (10) Final inspection and compliance. NOT included: utility disconnection fees, council permit fees ($525-$2,100+), soil testing, fine landscaping.

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Last updated: February 2026
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Prices are estimates based on market research and may vary by location, project size, site conditions, and specialist. Always get multiple quotes for accurate pricing. Demolitions require licensed plumbers and waterproofing, plus building permits for structural changes.

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