This webpage gives general guidance for contractors and the public on the demolition of buildings.

A person who intends to demolish a building or structure is required to notify us in writing. We will then serve them a Notice detailing the necessary work required to ensure that the public are protected and public amenity is preserved.

These requirements include:

• To remove all materials or rubbish resulting from the demolition and clearance of a site. Please Note: The burning of any material on site is prohibted.
• To disconnect and seal at such points as we may reasonably require, any drains in, or under the demolished building.
• To remove any drain, and seal any sewer or drain with which the drain to be removed is connected.
• To make good, to our satisfaction, the surface of the ground disturbed by any works detailed above.
• To make arrangements with the relevant statutory undertakers for the disconnection of the supply of gas, water and electricity to the demolished building.
• Where necessary, to shore up any adjacent buildings to our satisfaction.
• Where necessary, to waterproof any surfaces of an adjacent building which are exposed by the demolition works.
• To remove all asbestos found in the buildings and to dispose of it in a safe and satisfactory manner.
• Where necessary, to repair and make good any damage to an adjacent building caused by the demolition works or by the negligent act or omission of any person engaged in it.
• To provide a method statement of the demolition as to the extent and nature of the protection to the public, removal of debris, correct filling of basements and method of shoring / weather protection of adjacent properties.
• To ensure that all necessary steps are taken as required by us for the protection of the public and the preservation of public amenity.

There is a Code of Practice established by the Environmental Protection Team relating to minimising nuisance caused to nearby residents with respect to noise, dust, vibration and the use of concrete crushers on sites. For guidance on these issues view the code of practice below or speak to a member of the Environmental Protection Team on 01233 331111.

View the Code of Practice for Construction Sites webpage.

Advice on dealing with asbestos can be obtained from Environmental Health Services on 01233 330225.

For information about the disposal of asbestos call Kent County Council Waste Helpline 01622 696977 (24hr).

The control of demolitions falls under the auspices of Sections 80, 81, 82 and 83 of the Building Act 1984. The Act requires us to notify the adjoining owners that a demolition is to occur, and also to notify the persons undertaking the demolition of their obligations under the requirements above.