How to Hire a Demolition Contractor in Coffs Harbour

Hiring a demolition contractor in Coffs Harbour isn't as simple as finding the cheapest quote online. Demolition is a licensed, regulated trade in NSW — and getting it wrong can mean fines, unsafe worksites, and costly remediation work that falls back on you as the property owner.

Whether you're knocking down a shed, removing a fibro house, or clearing a site for a new build, here's what to look for before you hand over a deposit.

Check Their NSW Demolition Licence First

In New South Wales, any demolition work on a structure over a certain height or complexity requires a licensed contractor. The licence is issued by SafeWork NSW and is publicly searchable.

Before you do anything else, ask for the contractor's licence number and verify it on the SafeWork NSW licence check. A legitimate contractor will give you this without hesitation.

At Aussie Demolition Co, we hold Demolition Licence AD214509 — you can verify it directly with SafeWork NSW.

If a contractor can't provide a licence number, walk away.

Ask About Asbestos Separately

Demolition and asbestos removal are two separate licences in NSW. Many demolition contractors are not licensed to handle asbestos — which is a serious problem if your property was built before 1990.

If your site has any chance of containing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), you need a contractor who holds both:

• A Demolition Licence (for structural demolition work)

• An Asbestos Removal Licence (for removing ACMs safely)

Hiring a demolition contractor who subcontracts the asbestos work to an unlicensed third party is a common and costly mistake. Make sure the same company holds both licences, or that any subcontractor they use is licensed and their details are disclosed to you upfront.

Aussie Demolition Co holds both licences — Demolition AD214509 and Asbestos Removal AD214563 — so you're dealing with one accountable team from start to finish.

Request a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)

A Safe Work Method Statement is a legal requirement for high-risk construction work, which includes demolition. The SWMS outlines how the contractor plans to manage the risks on your specific site — things like falling debris, dust control, utility disconnections, and asbestos handling.

A reputable contractor will have a SWMS ready before work starts. If they can't produce one, or seem unfamiliar with the term, that's a red flag.

Understand What's Included in the Quote

Demolition quotes can vary wildly depending on what's actually included. Before you compare prices, make sure each quote covers the same scope. Ask specifically about:

• Disconnection of utilities — gas, water, and electricity need to be disconnected before demolition begins. Who arranges this?

• Asbestos testing and removal — is this included, or is it a separate cost?

• Waste disposal and tipping fees — where does the rubble go, and who pays for it?

• Site clearance — will the site be left clean and level, or just demolished?

• Council approvals — does the contractor handle the demolition permit, or is that on you?

A quote that looks cheap upfront can quickly blow out if these items aren't included. Always get a written, itemised quote.

Check Their Insurance

Demolition is high-risk work. Make sure your contractor carries:

• Public liability insurance — covers damage to neighbouring properties, fences, and infrastructure

• Workers' compensation insurance — covers their workers if someone is injured on your site

Ask for a certificate of currency for both policies. If a contractor is uninsured and something goes wrong, you could be held liable as the property owner.

Look for Local Experience

Demolition in the Coffs Harbour region comes with specific considerations — coastal conditions, older fibro housing stock, rural properties with outbuildings, and proximity to neighbours in established suburbs. A contractor who works regularly in the area will understand local council requirements, common asbestos profiles in older homes, and the logistics of working in tight residential streets.

Ask how long they've been operating in the area and whether they can point to local jobs they've completed.

Red Flags to Watch For

• No licence number, or reluctance to provide one

• Cash-only quotes with no written contract

• No mention of asbestos assessment on a pre-1990 property

• Unusually low quotes that don't itemise scope

• No SWMS or safety documentation

• Pressure to start immediately without proper planning

Get a Free Site Assessment Before You Commit

If you're not sure what's involved in your demolition project — or you want an honest assessment of what it will cost — a free site visit is the best place to start.

Aussie Demolition Co offers free site assessments for homeowners and builders across Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Woolgoolga, Grafton, Bellingen, Nambucca Heads, and surrounding areas. We'll walk your site, identify any asbestos risks, and give you a clear, itemised quote with no obligation.

Book your free site assessment and get straight answers from licensed professionals before you commit to anything.