How To
The House Demolition Process in Florida, Step by Step
6 min read · Updated 2026-10-30
Demolishing a house in Florida follows a set order: confirm ownership and plans, order the asbestos survey, schedule utility disconnects, get the demolition permit, tear down and haul, then finish the lot to the condition written in your scope.
1. Decide what the lot needs to look like afterward
Start at the end. Are you rebuilding, selling the lot or holding it? Your builder or buyer decides whether the slab, driveway, pool, trees and fence stay or go. That decision shapes every quote you get.
2. Order the asbestos survey
Federal asbestos rules require an inspection before most demolitions, and building departments commonly ask for it with the permit. A licensed asbestos consultant does the survey. If asbestos is found, a licensed abatement contractor may need to remove it before teardown.
3. Schedule utility disconnects
Electric, gas, water and sewer must be disconnected and capped. Each utility sets its own schedule, so request these early. Septic tanks and wells may have separate abandonment rules.
4. Get the demolition permit
The address decides whether your city or the county reviews the permit. Expect to show the survey and disconnect confirmations. All Out Rubbish handles the demolition permit for its projects. Approval times vary and can't be guaranteed.
5. Teardown and hauling
With the permit issued, the structure comes down and debris is loaded and hauled. Block homes, slabs and pools add equipment time. Neighbors appreciate a heads-up about the schedule.
6. Finish the lot and close the permit
The lot is left in the agreed condition, such as rough-cleared or back to flat land. Remember that flat land isn't the same as engineered grading for a new foundation. Final inspections close out the permit; keep the records.
- Keep: permit, survey, disconnect letters, final inspection
- Ask your builder what lot condition they need
- Plan upkeep if the lot will sit empty
Get a written quote
All Out Rubbish handles demolition across Palm Beach and Broward County, handles the permit, and is licensed, insured and bonded. Text the address, photos and what should stay on the lot to (561) 345-9808 for a written project quote.
Common questions
Who handles the demolition permit?
All Out Rubbish handles demolition permits for its projects. The address decides whether your city or county reviews it.
Can I skip the asbestos survey?
Usually not. Most demolitions need an inspection first, and permit offices commonly require it.
Request a demolition project quote
Text the property address, photos of what must come down, access photos and the lot finish you need. All Out Rubbish handles the permit and is licensed, insured and bonded.
Read the full demolition guide