Demolition Contractors Tacoma

Frequently Asked Questions About Demolition Contractors

What is a demolition bond?

A demolition bond is a type of surety bond that protects the property owner and the local government from financial losses if the demolition contractor fails to complete the project according to the terms of the contract or fails to comply with applicable regulations. It acts as a guarantee that the contractor will perform the work as agreed upon. If the contractor defaults, the bond can be used to cover the costs of completing the demolition or to address any damages caused by the contractor's negligence.

What types of insurance should a demolition contractor have?

A reputable demolition contractor should have the following insurance coverage:

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims of property damage or bodily injury to third parties.
• Workers' Compensation Insurance: Covers medical expenses and lost wages for employees injured on the job.
• Pollution Liability Insurance: Protects against claims related to environmental contamination caused by demolition activities.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Covers errors or omissions in the contractor's professional services.

Request proof of insurance certificates before hiring a demolition contractor to ensure you are adequately protected.

What are the different types of demolition?

Demolition techniques vary based on project needs. Common types include:

• Manual Demolition: Utilizes hand tools and smaller equipment for smaller structures or selective demolition tasks. It's labor-intensive but offers precise control.
• Mechanical Demolition: Employs heavy machinery like excavators and wrecking balls for larger structures and faster demolition.
• Implosion: Uses carefully placed explosives to collapse a building inward, often chosen for tall structures in densely populated areas. It requires specialized expertise and strict safety protocols.
• High-Reach Demolition: Demolishes tall structures piece-by-piece from the ground up using long-reach excavators or demolition robots, minimizing dust and debris.
• Selective Demolition: Involves carefully removing specific parts of a structure while preserving others, commonly used in renovations or partial demolitions.

A professional demolition contractor will recommend the most suitable method for your specific project based on factors like size, location, budget, and environmental considerations.

What are the legal responsibilities of a demolition contractor?

Demolition contractors have numerous legal responsibilities, including:

• Obtaining Permits: Securing all necessary permits and approvals before commencing demolition.
• Compliance with Codes and Regulations: Adhering to building codes, environmental regulations, and safety standards during all demolition activities.
• Worker Safety: Providing a safe working environment for their employees and complying with occupational safety regulations.
• Waste Management: Properly handling, transporting, and disposing of demolition debris in accordance with environmental laws.
• Public Safety: Taking measures to protect the public from any hazards associated with the demolition.
• Insurance and Bonding: Maintaining adequate insurance coverage and surety bonds to protect against potential liabilities.

Choosing a contractor who understands and fulfills these responsibilities is crucial.