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NZ Building Code · Build SequenceDemolition: the prep and paperwork that make it safe
Demolition is one of the highest-risk jobs on site, and the part people underestimate is the prep and paperwork, not the knocking-down.
Demolition is one of the highest-risk jobs on site, and the bit people underestimate is the paperwork and prep, not the knocking-down. Before anything comes down you need the hazards identified (especially asbestos), the services made safe, the right consents, and a plan for the waste.
Before you start — the checklist
Run through these in order before any structure is disturbed:
- Asbestos survey first. Anything built or renovated before 2000 needs a demolition asbestos survey. Remove ACM (licensed where required) before demolition disturbs it.
- Disconnect and make safe all services. Power, gas, water and telecoms must be capped or disconnected by the relevant authority or tradesperson before work starts.
- Sort your consents. Full demolition usually needs a building consent (some minor demolition is Schedule 1 exempt), and a resource consent if the building is heritage or character-listed, or a district-plan trigger applies.
- Notify and protect. Look after neighbours, the public and adjoining structures. Put dust suppression and noise controls in place, and protect anything being retained.
It’s high-risk work (WorkSafe)
Demolition involves structural collapse, falls, dust (silica and asbestos) and heavy plant. Keep the job controlled:
- Work top-down.
- Keep people clear of drop zones.
- Have a documented method (SWMS).
Some demolition is notifiable work, so check the threshold before you begin.
Consider deconstruction over demolition
Where time allows, careful dismantling (deconstruction) beats straight demolition — it recovers far more reusable and recyclable material.
Plain-English guide, not advice. This page helps you understand and navigate the rules — it is general information, not design, engineering or consent advice, and it does not reproduce the copyrighted tables of NZS 3604 or any Standard. Always check the current Standard or Acceptable Solution and your BCA, and use a suitably qualified LBP, engineer or QS where it matters.
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Common questions
Do I need an asbestos survey before demolition?
Yes. Anything built or renovated before 2000 needs a demolition asbestos survey. Any asbestos-containing material (ACM) must be removed — licensed where required — before demolition disturbs it.
Does demolition need a building consent?
Full demolition usually needs a building consent, though some minor demolition is Schedule 1 exempt. You may also need a resource consent if the building is heritage or character-listed, or if a district-plan trigger applies.
What services need disconnecting first?
Power, gas, water and telecoms must all be capped or disconnected by the relevant authority or tradesperson before demolition work starts.
Why is demolition considered high-risk work?
Demolition involves structural collapse, falls, dust (silica and asbestos) and heavy plant. Work top-down, keep people clear of drop zones, and have a documented method (SWMS). Some demolition is also notifiable work, so check the threshold.
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