Demolition & Excavation Glossary for Erie Homeowners

Safe removal of asbestos-containing materials before demolition. Required by PA law for buildings constructed before 1980. Must be performed by licensed abatement contractors.

Processing demolished concrete into reusable aggregate. Crushed concrete can be used as fill material, saving disposal costs and reducing environmental impact.

Properly disconnecting and sealing utility lines (water, gas, sewer, electric) before demolition. Required for safety and must be performed by licensed professionals.

Authorization from Erie's Code Enforcement office required before any structural demolition. The application process includes utility disconnection and environmental clearance.

Transporting demolition waste to appropriate disposal or recycling facilities. Costs depend on material type and volume. Erie has specific disposal requirements for different materials.

Pumping groundwater from an excavation to maintain a dry work area. Common in Erie due to the high water table, especially near the lakefront and low-lying areas.

Digging and removing earth for foundations, utilities, grading, or land clearing. Erie's clay soil and high water table present unique excavation challenges.

Testing for hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint, PCBs) before demolition. Required for commercial demolitions and residential structures built before 1980.

Leveling and shaping the ground surface for proper drainage. After demolition, grading ensures water flows away from adjacent properties and structures.

Removing specific portions of a structure while preserving the rest. Common for interior renovations and partial tear-downs. Requires precision and structural understanding.

Temporary structural support installed to prevent collapse during selective demolition or excavation near existing structures.

Complete removal of an entire structure down to the foundation or below. The site is then graded and prepared for new construction or landscaping.