Pre-Demolition Audits

Pre-Demolition Audits identify opportunities for reclamation, re-use and recycling from a demolition process. The end report will provide you with graphical displays on waste arisings that can be expected from the process, together with list of recommendations for reducing your waste disposal costs.

What Are Pre-Demolition Audits?

The Pre-Demolition methodology/approach was defined by The Institute of Civil Engineers (The ICE Demolition Protocol) and Audits can be necessary for planning requirements (Circular Economy Statements) or BREEAM Wst Accreditation. They are designed to highlight the potential for maximum material recovery through demolition and provide a bill of quantities of tonnages that will arise. A report will be produced detailing materials arisings as well as a list of suggested actions to be undertaken so that maximum material recovery is achieved.

Why Do I Need A Pre-Demolition Audit?

Pre-Demolition Audits are a pre-requisite for meeting BREEAM Wst 01 Construction Waste Management Credits. They are also a requirement for inclusion within Circular Economy Statements, as defined in the New London Plan and GLA Guidance. If the demolition process is not total a Pre-refurbishment Audit may be required as an alternative. Both Audits inform the project’s Site Waste Management Plan, to actually achieve the BREEAM Wst 01 credits. Previous clients for these services include Taylor Wimpey, Hollis Global and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

What Does The Report Include?

> The potential for maximum material recovery through demolition
> A Demolition bill of quantities, which identifies tonnages and potential applications of materials arising from demolition
> A set of recommendations for material segregation, considering the potential impact of contamination and the cost benefits for recovery and reclamation
> An analysis of Embodied Carbon

Our Process:

Our Step-By-Step Process:

Upon instruction, our team will begin the process for the Audit report:

1. Preparation – Our team will contact you to arrange a site survey and request any additional information they require.
2. Once confirmed – We will produce and issue RAMS for the site survey, which our site teams will adhere to during their time on site.
3. Site Survey – The survey team will arrive and carry out the audit, taking measurements and photos and detailing materials and building elements. Our surveys are always unintrusive and we always make sure to be considerate of potentially sensitive details.
4. Calculations – Using data collected during the survey, our bespoke calculations tool is used to generate predicted waste volumes, diversion from landfill and identify reuse and recycling opportunities.
5. Report – The Pre-Demolition Audit report is generated using information from the calculations and site survey. We produce a bespoke report for each project. Our reports will include a breakdown of materials found, carbon data, opportunities for reuse as well as all relevant local and national legislation.

We strive to issue the Pre-Demolition report within 2 weeks of the site survey, but our experienced, flexible approach can cater to most timeframes.

How Are Construction Materials Segregated?

The waste hierarchy will be used to maximise the recovery of construction materials and minimise environmental impact. A Pre-Demolition Audit will exhibit what materials can be reused, recycled, or disposed-of.

What Happens During A Site Survey?

Measurements of the building, existing structures and ceiling heights are taken for scale reference and to ensure accurate calculations. Notes are taken on the makeup of the building/ structure/materials, i.e. brick walls, plasterboard walls, flooring, ceilings, partitions, windows, M&E, exterior features, etc. Photos of both the interior and exterior will be taken, as well as noting down any features or items of value for reclaim/ reuse.

Calculations

Using the information gained from the survey, together with any site drawings, the calculations are carried out as a desktop exercise to provide data for the report.

What Does The Audit Report Show?

There will be a description of the demolition works taking place; the document will identify any features or materials that can be reused or has reclaim value in the form of Key Demolition Products (KDPs). A table of local waste contractors will be provided that will state factors such as their waste carrier’s registration number and distance from the site.

How Long Do Pre-Demolition Audits Take To Complete?

Pre-Demolition Audits on average can take between a few days to several weeks to complete. The data collection process before a site survey is dependent on the availability of the information and the physical inspection of the site can take up to several days if there are complex buildings. Once the site visit is completed, the collected data will be analysed to create the final report. WPSCC ensures the provided results are as accurate as possible using the information provided and the WPSCC personnel deployed to carry out the Audits benefit from experience gleaned since 2012.

> Our goal is to help you to achieve your goals with our flexibility of service offerings and delivery
> We will do our job without hindering you from doing yours’
> WPSCC has the privilege of consistently working with many exciting clients and will continue to develop and diversify to ensure its ever changing client needs are satisfied to the highest standards possible

Pre-Demolition Audit FAQs

What is a Pre-Demolition Audit Report?

A pre-demolition audit report is a comprehensive document that evaluates materials in a building before demolition. It identifies materials that can be reused, recycled, or responsibly disposed of, helping reduce waste and promote resource efficiency. The report typically includes a material inventory, carbon analysis, and recommendations for material segregation.

How Do Pre-Demolition Audits Contribute to BREEAM Certification?

Pre-demolition audits support BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification by:

Securing up to 4 BREEAM Wst 01 Construction Waste Management credits.
Informing the Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) to optimize material recovery.
Promoting resource efficiency and aligning with Circular Economy principles, which are essential for meeting BREEAM requirements.

What Are the Key Steps in the Pre-Demolition Audit Process?

The pre-demolition audit process follows these steps:

Site Survey & Assessment: Inspecting the building to identify structural and non-structural materials.
Material Inventory & Categorization: Classifying materials as reusable, recyclable, or waste.
Feasibility Analysis: Evaluating cost-effectiveness and practicality of reuse or recycling.
Audit Report: Compiling findings and providing actionable recommendations.

How Can Pre-Demolition Audits Support Circular Economy Goals?

Pre-demolition audits contribute to circular economy goals by:

Maximizing the reuse of salvaged materials in new projects.
Promoting the recycling of building components, reducing the need for raw materials.
Minimizing waste sent to landfills, reducing the overall environmental impact of demolition.

What Role Does Embodied Carbon Analysis Play in Pre-Demolition Audits?

Embodied carbon analysis in a pre-demolition audit assesses the carbon footprint of existing materials. This information helps project teams understand the environmental impact of demolition and identify opportunities to reduce emissions by prioritizing material reuse and recycling.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Pre-Demolition Audit Report?

The duration of a pre-demolition audit depends on the size and complexity of the project. However, most comprehensive audits, including site assessments and report generation, are typically completed within a week following the site survey.

Why Should Developers Conduct a Pre-Demolition Audit?

Conducting a pre-demolition audit helps developers:

Identify materials that can be salvaged, reducing waste.
Lower project costs by promoting the reuse and recycling of materials.
Support compliance with planning regulations and sustainability commitments.
Enhance environmental performance by reducing carbon emissions.

What Information is Included in a Pre-Demolition Audit Report?

A pre-demolition audit report typically includes:

Reason for Demolition: Justification for the building’s removal.
Material Inventory: A detailed breakdown of materials found on-site.
Embodied Carbon Analysis: Assessment of the carbon footprint of existing materials.
Recommendations for Material Segregation: Guidelines to maximize reuse and recycling.
List of Local Waste Contractors: Information on facilities that can process reclaimed materials.

How Does a Pre-Demolition Audit Reduce Construction Waste?

By identifying reusable and recyclable materials before demolition, pre-demolition audits help divert significant amounts of waste from landfills. This minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and reduces disposal costs. Additionally, it encourages the adoption of circular economy principles in the construction industry.

Are Pre-Demolition Audits Mandatory for BREEAM Compliance?

While pre-demolition audits are not always mandatory, they are strongly recommended for projects seeking BREEAM certification. Conducting an audit helps developers secure BREEAM Wst 01 credits and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable construction practices.

How Much Does a Pre-Demolition Audit Cost?

The cost of a pre-demolition audit varies depending on several factors, including:

Project Size and Complexity: Larger or more complex sites may require more detailed analysis and longer audit periods.
Level of Detail Required: Comprehensive audits that include embodied carbon analysis and feasibility assessments may cost more.
Location and Logistics: The distance of the site and accessibility may influence survey costs.

Investing in an audit often results in long-term cost savings by identifying valuable materials and reducing landfill disposal fees. Call us on 01604 859961 or email [email protected] for a quotation.