What are the average commercial building demolition costs?

Mar 02, 2023

When it comes to major commercial demolition projects, understanding their financial costs can be just as important as the practical challenges associated with them. Whether your project involves a large-scale building removal, such as a school or a hospital, or the destruction of factories and industrial sites, the total costs of these projects can have a significant impact on budgets and project timelines. So, what’s the average cost associated with these kinds of major demolitions? 


Well, as with most things when it comes to demolition projects, it depends. But through gathering data from past projects and industry experts, we've laid out some key statistics to give you a better picture of what to expect when considering the cost to demolish a commercial building or other types of structures.


How much does school demolition cost? 

The cost of demolishing a school can vary greatly depending on the square foot size of the building as well as its location in relation to other buildings. On average, this demolition can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $250,000, while the cost can increase if the school is in a densely populated area or if the building is made of hazardous materials such as asbestos. Additionally, the cost of permits and fees can also add to the overall cost of school demolition.

How much does hospital demolition cost? 

Hospitals are typically larger and more complex buildings than schools, and their demolition costs can vary greatly depending on the complexity of a commercial property of this size. On average, hospital demolition costs range from $200,000 to $2 million or more. And since hospitals typically contain hazardous materials, the cost can be higher if the project has specific requirements for the disposal of medical waste.

How much does shopping centre demolition cost? 

Shopping centres are typically large and complex structures, and the cost of demolition can be significant due to the multi-staged deconstruction approach that is typically required. On average, shopping centre demolition costs can range from $500,000 to $2 million or more. As with other commercial building types, the cost can vary depending on the size of the shopping centre, the materials used in its construction, and the complexity of the demolition process.

How much does residential precinct or apartment building demolition cost? 

On average, the cost of demolishing a high-density residential precinct or apartment building can range from $20,000 to $100,000 per unit. Additionally, the cost of permits and fees or if the building is in a densely populated area can also add to the overall cost of apartment building demolition.

How much does factory demolition cost? 

When planning for the cost of a factory demolition, it is essential to consider the various factors that can impact the overhead of the project. One of the most significant factors is the size of the building, since larger factories require more labour and equipment to demolish, which can drive up the overall cost of the project. Additionally, the materials used in the building's construction can also impact the cost -- for example, buildings made of reinforced concrete or steel can be more difficult to demolish and may require more specialised equipment. This is why, on average, the cost of a factory demolition can range from $100,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the facility.


So don't let unexpected costs derail your commercial demolition project. Be sure to contact an experienced demolition contractor like Thor Demolition for a consultation and a detailed estimate of your demolition project's costs. As a leading Queensland commercial demolition contractor, we can provide you with expert guidance and ensure that even the largest and most complex demolition project is efficient, safe, and completed without undue additional costs.


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