Dismantling buildings
Dismantling involves the careful deconstruction of building components for repair, re-use, re-purposing or recycling. Dismantling differs from deconstruction in that it can be undertaken as a means of conservation, maintenance and repair works, whereas deconstruction involves taking a building down, albeit in a careful way that aims to minimise waste and maximise re-use. Dismantling also differs from demolition in that it does not generally involve the clearance of an entire structure.
Dismantling can be required on projects where it is necessary to remove intricate components, where there is a safety risk (for example if a structure contains asbestos or other hazardous materials), where it is necessary to move a component from one place to another, or where the structure and/or surrounding environment is particularly sensitive.
The cost and time required for dismantling depends on factors such as; complexity, volume, site conditions, building type, time availability, materials and techniques used, available records and so on.
According to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM Regulations), all dismantling work should be carefully planned and carried out by competent professionals to avoid unplanned structural collapse.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
Grenfell Tower fire – eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.