Wall removal is not a decision to make on an impulse. Sure, there are genuine interior décor benefits to enjoy.
For instance, knocking down an internal wall ushers more natural light into your house. This helps eliminate shadows while creating an illusion of space.
Removing walls in your property also reduces multiple internal room barriers, enabling you to create one open-floor layout that you can repurpose as desired.
However, like most home renovations, adequate preparation is critical to undertake a successful wall removal project. This post delves into the process involved in planning and executing wall demolition in Western Australia.
1. Consult a Structural Engineer
A structural engineer can provide technical insights into the potential impact of wall demolition on your property’s design and structural integrity.
Their input is particularly invaluable if you’re planning to knock down load-bearing walls, which carry a significant amount of safety risks.
But how to contact a structural engineer?
Professional WA wall removal companies either maintain a workforce comprising qualified structural engineers or work closely with these technicians. However, insist on seeing proof of experience and license before hiring the individual.
2. Obtain Relevant Permits
Undertaking wall removal in Western Australia without relevant permits is a contravention of building codes. If convicted, both the property owner and demolition contractor could face hefty fines.
So, once a structural engineer greenlights your wall removal plans, proceed to obtain proper permits.
In WA, a BA5 permit is mandatory before conducting any wall demolition. You can apply for the permit directly from the Western Australian Government website.
Depending on the project’s complexity, you may also require a WorkSafe Approval. The permit lets you knock down walls measuring ten meters or higher, especially in commercial buildings.
3. Seek Out Local Wall Demolition Experts
When searching for wall removal companies, you may be torn between national contractors and those based within the Western Australian region.
National brands enjoy higher approval ratings since they target a larger clientele. However, local contractors provide quick response times and fast project turnarounds.
Working with WA-based wall removal companies is cost-effective, too. That’s because the contractor is probably located within your general city or neighborhood, minimizing high transport markups.
Moreover, hiring a regional wall demolition expert entitles you to personalized services while enabling you to give back to the local community.
4. Insist On an Experienced Contractor
Don’t just settle with the first company that pops up in your online search or word-of-mouth referrals. Instead, research widely and pick the most experienced contractor for the job.
Before choosing a wall demolition technician, sample online reviews to learn more about what previous clients had to say about their services. Pay keen attention to feedback, touching on quality workmanship, responsive feedback, and overall professionalism.
Next, request to see proof of licensing. Wall demolition experts in WA can possess Class 1 or Class 2 license types. The licenses are required to remove walls measuring over 10 meters or under 10 meters high, respectively.
Check that the contractor has proper insurance coverage as well, including;
- Public Liability Insurance – Guards against damage to your property and personal injuries to you or your household members.
- Professional Indemnity Insurance – Cushions you from substandard workmanship.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Protects you from liability for injuries sustained by the wall demolition company’s employees.
Lastly, seek out a wall removal expert with special experience in knocking down load-bearing walls. If your property is several decades old, you may require someone experienced in asbestos removal, too.
5. Schedule Inspections
The first round of inspections, typically conducted by a structural engineer, is meant to assess the structural impact of knocking down an interior wall in your property.
However, the identified demolition expert would also need to perform their own inspections. The idea is to assess the complete work scope before issuing you with a suitable quote.
Usually, the wall removal contractor will inspect the wall’s location, construction material, load-bearing capabilities, and whether it houses utilities within its cavity.
6. Set a Budget
Wall demolition costs in Western Australia can range from as low as $300 to over $10,000.
As mentioned, multiple factors are at play.
Removing load-bearing walls is more expensive than non-load-bearing ones. The same is true for concrete or brick walls, compared to timber or drywall.
If the wall is designated for removal, it houses critical utilities like plumbing lines, and you can expect the cost to be significantly higher as well.
7. Clear the Room
After accepting a wall removal quote and setting aside a budget for the project, prepare your house for the actual demolition work.
First, you’ll need to shut down utilities ahead of the project day. Turn off electricity, water, and HVAC units at the mains to prevent unnecessary accidents.
You may also need to remove furniture and fixtures from the adjoining rooms. Carpeting, wall hangings, and utensils would need to be out as well.
You could transfer these items to another room or keep them on your balcony. Either way, cover them with plastic tarps to minimize dust and weather damage.
To avoid heavy clean-up after the removal work, cover the floors, ceiling, and walls in adjacent rooms with drop cloths.
8. Oversee the Actual Procedure
You don’t need to be around during the actual wall removal work. The demolition expert will perform the work diligently and update you every step of the way. But if you choose to be present, you can oversee the project from a safe distance.
The actual wall demolition process will depend on the type of wall in question. However, the contractor will typically start by assembling relevant tools and materials. These include reciprocating saws, sledgehammers, utility knives, pry bars, and safety gear.
The wall removal expert will then mark utility lines to avoid damaging them. If need be, the contractor may remove doors and windows as well.
The next step entails punching or drilling starter holes in the wall using a hammer. They then cut the wall between the studs before pulling down the entire section.
Next, your wall demolition expert will undertake final touch-ups like plastering and repainting work. The final step is disposing of the debris.
Summary
A well-planned wall demolition project is already halfway done.
Always obtain relevant permits before going ahead with any wall removal. Then, seek out an experienced wall demolition contractor that’s duly licensed and insured.
Besides, insist on someone who enjoys impressive reviews from their previous clients. It’s even better if the company is based within the Western Australia region, as local demolition contractors offer competitive prices and personalized services.
Remember that the wall demolition work isn’t done when the wall comes down. Therefore, ensure the contractor can undertake any ensuing rebuilding work. This lets you get back to your routine with minimal disruptions.