Preparing for Driveway Removal: A Comprehensive Checklist for Homeowners
Removing a residential driveway is a big job and requires careful planning and execution. As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the entire process before you begin.
Below is a comprehensive checklist for residential driveway removal to help you get organized and ensure that the job is done correctly; whether you are doing it yourself or via a contractor like GBC Excavating.
Obtain Necessary Permits
Before you begin any work on your driveway, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits from your local government. Depending on your area, you may need to apply for a demolition permit, a building permit, or both. Check with your local building department to find out what permits you need and how to get them.
Notify Neighbors
Before you begin any work, it’s important to notify your neighbors. This is especially important if the driveway is near a shared property line. Let them know what you’re doing and when, so they can make any necessary preparations. You don’t want them causing any issues once work starts that could delay the finishing of the project.
Rent Necessary Equipment
Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to rent some specialized equipment if you are not using a driveway removal service. This could include an excavator, a bulldozer, a dump truck, or other heavy machinery. Make sure you rent the right equipment for the job and that you have a plan for disposing of the debris.
Set a Timeline
Once you’ve obtained the necessary permits, notified your neighbors, and rented the equipment, it’s time to set a timeline for the project. Consider factors like the size of the driveway, the weather, and the availability of equipment, and then set realistic goals for when you’ll start and finish the job. This is usually where a driveway removal contractor becomes invaluable since most homeowners are not familiar with everything involved in the process.
Prepare the Site
Before you start removing the driveway, it’s important to prepare the site. This includes removing any vegetation or debris, marking any underground utilities, and taking other safety precautions. Note in your area you may need to call ahead to local utility companies prior to digging. Do this at the beginning, to avoid any delays, fines, or big mistakes!
Removal Process
Once the site is ready, you can begin the removal process. This will depend on the size and complexity of the job, but in general, you’ll need to dig up the driveway, haul away the debris, and fill in the area with new materials based on what will be replacing the driveway.
Clean Up
Once the driveway has been removed, it’s time to clean up the area. This includes removing all debris, compacting the soil, and seeding or laying sod if new concrete or asphalt was laid right away.
Removing Your Driveway Isn’t Easy
Removing a driveway is a big job, but with the right preparation and organization, it can be done safely and effectively. Use this residential driveway removal checklist to make sure you have all your bases covered and the job is done right.