01
Signs a Teardown Makes More Sense Than a Remodel
- The house needs a new roof, windows, electrical and plumbing at the same time.
- Foundation or drainage problems are significant.
- The layout cannot be fixed without moving most interior walls.
- The house sits in the middle of the lot, blocking any second building.
- The land is worth far more than the structure — common for 1950s–1970s ramblers in Lynnwood, Edmonds, Shoreline and Mountlake Terrace.
02
What Happens Before the Excavator Arrives
- 01Hazardous materials surveyHomes built before 1980 often contain asbestos in flooring, siding, pipe wrap or textured ceilings. A survey is required before demolition, and any asbestos is removed by a certified abatement contractor.
- 02Utility disconnectsPower, gas, water and sewer capped and documented.
- 03Demolition permitIssued by the city, often alongside the new building permit.
- 04Air quality noticePuget Sound Clean Air Agency requires notification before most demolitions.
- 05SalvageFixtures, lumber and appliances diverted from landfill where it is practical.
03
Keep, Sell or Mix
| Plan | How it works |
|---|---|
| Keep all units | Refinance into long-term rental financing after completion |
| Sell all units | Unit lot subdivision, sell each townhome or cottage |
| Live in one, sell the rest | Sales proceeds retire the construction loan |
| Live in one, rent the rest | Rental income supports the owner's unit |
04
Teardown FAQ
QCan I live in the old house while permits are processed?
Yes. Demolition usually happens only after building permits are approved, so most owners stay put through design and permitting.
QWhat if the old house has a tenant?
Washington and some cities have notice requirements for tenants when a rental is demolished. We build that notice period into the schedule.
QIs it cheaper to keep the foundation?
Rarely for multi-unit projects. The new layout almost never matches the old footprint.