DEMOLITION

In a city that continues to evolve, there comes a time when buildings need to make way for new beginnings. Demolition in Newcastle has become a necessity, and Lake Mac Demo is here to provide you with top-notch demolition services.

We have over 15 years of experience in demolitions and strip-outs, with particular attention to projects involving asbestos.

Commitment to Safety

At Lake Mac Demo, our top priority is safety. We hold necessary certificates and licenses such as:

  • Remove non-friable asbestos certificate/licence
  • Demolition certificate


Asbestos was used in over three thousand building products in Australia until it was banned. Sadly, we also have one of the highest rates of asbestos-related disease in the world. It also has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma, with between 700 and 800 people diagnosed with it each year. Over four thousand people die each year due to asbestos-related illnesses.


Although asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, many associated health usually develops 20-40 years after initial exposure. This is why Lake Mac Demo have NATA-accredited analysts test all our asbestos samples and work closely with environmental hygienists for asbestos assessments and hazardous materials reports.

Local Community

Demolition projects affect not only our clients but also neighbours and the wider community. This requires open communication and engagement to address concerns and ensure a smooth process. From noise management to traffic disruptions, community-friendly practices are integral. Our clients often commend us on our excellent communication skills and for being easy to deal with. After 15 years in the industry, we know how to make projects run smoothly with the least headaches possible.


Demolition generates a substantial amount of waste, and responsible disposal practices are crucial. Lake Mac Demo regularly reviews its sustainable practices, ensuring we recycle and repurpose materials to minimise the environmental footprint.

Equipment

We use state-of-the-art machinery and cutting-edge technology. Our demolition teams ensure that the process is efficient and minimally disruptive to the surrounding environment. High-reach excavators, concrete crushers, and dust suppression systems are among the tools used.


We may not have some of the heavy-hitting equipment the bigger, more expensive companies have, but we have what’s needed to complete most projects. For instance, we use a Kubota 4-tonne excavator. It is one of the best excavators on the market and combines strength, versatility, and performance. Our skilled team use this to expedite our demolition jobs. This is one of the reasons we have an incredible 2-week turnaround (pending council approvals).

Planning

Demolition is a complex process that begins with meticulous planning. Our experienced professional team conducts thorough site assessments, considering factors such as structure type, potential hazards, and environmental impact. Our precision at this stage guarantees a seamless, safe, and efficient demolition.
Most demolition jobs or excavations require council approval. The council approves most demolition work within 20 days of the application. This is a crucial step, and any mistakes in the application will delay the project’s start date. Lake Mac Demo has years of experience submitting DA applications and can take care of this step. You must notify neighbouring properties within 20 metres of the proposed demolition site at least 14 days in advance.

Demolition Licences

In NSW, there are two distinct types of demolition licences: a restricted demolition licence and an unrestricted demolition licence.

Restricted Demolition Licence

This is needed to demolish or even partly demolish any load-bearing structure or part of a structure. It applies if the structure is 6-15 metres high or involves using load-shifting machinery on a suspended floor.
Businesses applying for a restricted license must provide evidence of relevant training and certification. This may include completing specific demolition courses, safety training, and other industry-related qualifications. A demolition public liability insurance certificate is also needed.

Unrestricted Demolition Licence

This licence is needed if, in addition to the above, the loadbearing structure:

  • is over 15 metres high, or
  • is a chemical installation or
  • involves a tower crane on site or
  • involves a mobile crane with a rated capacity of more than 100 tonnes or
  • has structural components that are pre-tensioned or post-tensioned, or
  • involves floor propping or
  • involves explosives.


Info source: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/licences-and-registrations/licences/unrestricted-demolition-licence
It’s essential for individuals or companies involved in demolition work in NSW to be aware of the licensing requirements and to comply with relevant regulations to ensure the safety of all stakeholders involved in demolition projects. Additionally, staying informed about updates and changes to licensing requirements is crucial for maintaining compliance with industry standards

Regulation Changes

New regulations for demolition work in NSW came into place on 1 March 2023. New penalties and on-the-spot fines were introduced. The main points, according to the Safework website, were to the following:

Check for Asbestos

The asbestos register must be checked before demolition work starts. If the register isn’t available, the structure must be tested for asbestos. All asbestos must be removed before demolition work begins.

Confirm Whether the Site Contains Chemicals

The licence holder or the person conducting a business must check the site to see if it contains chemicals before demolition work starts.

Penalties and On-The-Spot Fines

From 1 March 2023, you can be fined or prosecuted under the WHS Regulation for not:

  • ensuring licensed demolition work you have commissioned is carried out by a person with a licence (clause 142B).
  • ensuring a named supervisor is present and supervising licensed demolition work (clause 142C)
  • keeping records of the training undertaken by workers carrying out licensed demolition work, or not ensuring those records are available for inspection by SafeWork NSW (clause 142E)
  • having your licence available for inspection by SafeWork NSW (clause 143I)
  • providing written notice within 14 days of a change of relevant information related to your licence (clause 143J).
  • applying to SafeWork NSW to remove a named supervisor from your licence within 14 days of ceasing to use that person as a supervisor (clause 143K)
  • returning your licence when requested in writing and within the time specified by SafeWork NSW when the licence has been amended (clause 143P)
  • notifying SafeWork NSW as soon as practicable if you lose your licence (clause 143Q)
  • returning your licence to SafeWork NSW in accordance with the details (including timeframe) specified in a written notice issued by SafeWork NSW advising that your licence has been cancelled or suspended or that you are disqualified from holding a licence (clause 143ZD).

Info source: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/your-industry/construction/demolition


These regulation changes were great news for most demolition contractors in Newcastle and surrounding areas. It reduced the fly-by-night firms who thought any idiot with a sledgehammer could knock down a wall. Many of these companies didn’t follow safety regulations, and problems occurred.
Lake Mac Demo has all the necessary demolition and asbestos removal insurance, certifications, and licences. Our experienced team are all up to date with necessary training, completing all SafeWork NSW-approved courses and more. Contact us for a FREE Central Coast demolition quote on 0409007033.

Asbestos Management

Given Australia’s historical use of asbestos in construction, identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials is critical to demolition services. Lake Mac Demo ensures the safe removal and disposal of asbestos, safeguarding workers, and the surrounding community. With over 15 years of experience in the asbestos removal industry, you can rest assured that your demolition project is in safe hands.


Lake Mac Demo holds the relevant certificates and licenses to remove non-friable asbestos. We value and listen to our customers’ feedback; our 5-star Google reviews reflect this. NATA-accredited analysts test all our asbestos samples, and we work closely with environmental hygienists for asbestos assessments and hazardous materials reports.


Australia has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world. According to WorkSafe Australia, it is the most significant cause of work-related deaths, with over 4000 lives lost each year due to asbestos-related illnesses. Please don’t risk your family or neighbours’ safety; contact us for a free asbestos removal quote today.

Where Does Lake Mac Demo Service?

Our demolition services cover the following:

  • Newcastle
  • Hunter Valley
  • Lake Macquarie
  • Central Coast


We also service the surrounding areas, so do not hesitate to call us at 0409007033 to learn more if you are looking for demolition contractors near me.

Free Demolition Quote