Granny flats and secondary dwellings are common across Sydney and many older ones (1960s–1990s) are now being demolished for backyard pools, new builds or larger primary dwellings.
Typical Granny Flat Demolition Cost
Most granny flat demolitions in Sydney cost between $6,000 and $14,000 depending on size, construction and access. Fibro granny flats with asbestos sheeting are at the higher end. Small brick or weatherboard granny flats without asbestos can come in around $5,500–$8,000.
Why Access Drives Price
Granny flats sit at the back of the block, which usually means the excavator can't drive straight to them. We use smaller machines (1.7–3 tonne) for tight access, work through the side of the house, or hand-strip if access is impossible. Tight-access work adds 1–2 days. See tight-access demolition.
Asbestos in Older Granny Flats
Many backyard granny flats built before 1990 contain asbestos — fibro cladding, roof sheeting, eaves and internal wet-area panels. We test, remove and dispose of it as part of the demolition with full SafeWork NSW documentation.
What's Included
- Service disconnections coordination (water, power, gas where present)
- Asbestos removal and disposal
- Structural demolition
- Slab and footing removal where required
- Bulk-out and disposal
- Site left clean and ready
Council Approval
Granny flat demolition usually requires the same CDC or DA pathway as a house demolition. We can supply the demolition methodology and SWMS your certifier needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does granny flat demolition take?
Usually 1–3 days on site, plus another day if there's a concrete slab to remove.
Do I need a permit to demolish a granny flat?
Yes — either a CDC or DA. Granny flats are classified as habitable secondary dwellings, not exempt structures.
Can you reuse anything from the granny flat?
Sometimes — hardwood, copper pipe, salvageable doors. Tell us in advance and we'll set items aside.
Related Reading
Direct Demolition is a licensed Sydney demolition contractor (NSW Demolition Licence AD214611). Contact us or call 0451 117 275 for a free site inspection and fixed written quote.