Shed removal costs generally range from around $200 to $2,500, but this is a broad estimate. Contractors often charge $50 to $100 per hour for shed demolition. Others charge based on square footage, with the average range being $3.50 to $12.50 per square foot.

Let’s walk through the factors that influence shed removal costs and share some tips on saving money during the process to make the most informed decisions moving forward.

Shed Removal Cost Breakdown

Shed removal can cost a few hundred dollars to over $4,000, depending on multiple factors.

Labor

Labor generally costs $50 to $100 per hour or $3.50 to $12.50 per square foot. Size, materials, geographical location, and shed condition will all affect labor costs.

Size

The size of a shed determines how many people and tools you or your contractor need to tear it down:

Smaller sheds (8×8 feet or smaller): $50 – $150Medium sheds (10×12 feet): $200 – $500Large sheds (12×20 feet or larger): $500 – $1,000

Materials

Commonly used materials for sheds are wood, metal, vinyl, plastic, concrete, and stone. Your shed’s materials influence the approach to demolition since you wouldn’t use the same tools to dismantle wood as bricks and metal.

You can reuse some if they’re in good condition, and contractors may even offer to buy them after the job. You can often sell or reuse metal or concrete debris.

Location

Your shed’s location affects how accessible it is to vehicles (like big disposal trucks) and working conditions. Getting to the back of the house to remove a shed isn’t the same as walking through trees and rocky terrain. You may have to pay extra if your shed is hard to reach.

Condition

If the shed is seriously damaged, it’ll be easier to take down since it won’t require as much effort. An almost-new shed in excellent condition is safer but requires more time and effort and likely needs more tools to remove it.

Add inspection fees to the total cost if the shed is old enough to suspect asbestos. Removing asbestos requires an additional permit independent from the demolition one.

Foundation

If the shed has a concrete foundation, its removal can significantly increase costs. Foundation removal can add anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the size and thickness of the concrete.

Additional Costs to Consider

There are a few more costs to consider when demolishing a shed.

Clearing Out The Shed

Clearing out a shed full of unused items is a job that can add up labor hours. Contractors can handle this but consider doing it yourself to save on labor costs and ensure you don’t lose anything valuable.

Debris Disposal

A lot of debris will be left after removing a shed, and it has to go somewhere. Most contractors will include debris removal in the overall fee if they don’t ask about the costs to include proper debris removal. This often costs up to $800 by truckload or charge by weight, which can be more expensive than a fixed price.

Utility Disconnection

If the shed has water, gas, or electricity, they must disconnect it before taking it down. For reference, the price for an electrician ranges between$50 and $100 per hour, doubling the project’s cost during the hours the electrician is working.

Permits

Permits are required for a structure’s construction, alterations, and demolition – including sheds. While some states or cities don’t require you to get a permit, check your city’s building department regulations in case of any exceptions.

How to Save Money on Shed Removal

Consider these strategies to save as much as you can when removing your shed:

Move it rather than demolish it. Depending on the materials and building specs, you can sell your shed and have it moved by the buyer.Salvage reusable materials and sell them. You can also sell stored items you don’t plan to use anymore.Get multiple quotes from various local contractors. Exploring your options may help you identify cost-effective services.Ask for discounts. Check with your contractor or local services to see if you can take advantage of discounts for veterans, elderly citizens, or students.Do it yourself. If you have the experience and tools, your shed is safe to dismantle, and you don’t have to disconnect utilities. You can demolish a shed yourself and save hundreds or thousands. Otherwise, hire a professional.

FAQs

How much does it cost to move a shed?

Moving a shed costs between$200 and $1,000. The farther you move your shed, the more it costs.

How to tear down a shed?

Generally, tearing down a shed involves the following steps:

Disconnect all utilitiesRemove the windows and doorsRemove shingles (if any) and disassemble the roof’s frameworkBreak down the wallsDemolish the floor by removing the wood or breaking down the concrete

Do I need a permit to tear down a shed?

There’s a good chance you’ll need a demolition permit to tear down your shed in most American states. Any shed connected to utilities requires a demolition permit. But you may not need a permit for a small shed without utilities. Research local building codes to determine whether you’ll need a permit. Your contractor should be informed about local permits and help you through the process.