When considering demolishing a house because of inheritance matters or a vacant property, cost is usually the main concern. This article explains the cost per tsubo and typical price ranges by structure type, along with practical ways to keep demolition costs down.
What are the cost per tsubo and typical price ranges for house demolition?
| Structure | Cost per tsubo | Estimated cost for 20 tsubo |
|---|---|---|
| Wooden | JPY 30,000 to 50,000 | JPY 600,000 to 1.3 million |
| Steel frame | JPY 40,000 to 60,000 | JPY 680,000 to 1.4 million |
| Reinforced concrete | JPY 60,000 to 80,000 | JPY 700,000 to 1.6 million |
Costs vary significantly depending on the building size, structure, and whether there is a basement.
What other factors affect demolition costs?
Site conditions
In densely built residential areas, bringing in heavy machinery can be difficult, which may extend the project schedule. Urban areas also tend to have higher labor and storage costs, so demolition costs are often higher than in regional areas.
Amount of leftover items and waste materials
In most cases, the cost of disposing of leftover items and waste materials on the site is not included in the cost per tsubo. Make sure you understand the total cost in advance.
Degree of deterioration
Severely deteriorated buildings carry a risk of collapse, so the work must be done more carefully and costs increase as a result.
Additional work
Costs can change if additional work is required, such as asbestos inspection and removal, measures to prevent issues with neighbors, or demolition of structures other than the main building.
What are 3 ways to keep demolition costs down?
1. Compare quotes from multiple companies
Costs vary widely depending on the demolition contractor. Be sure to obtain and compare quotes from multiple companies.
2. Dispose of leftover items yourself in advance
By clearing weeds, garden trees, and household belongings in advance, you can avoid additional charges.
3. Use local government subsidies
Some local governments offer subsidy programs that cover part of the demolition cost or even up to half. Check the information provided by each municipality in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How long does demolition work take?
A typical guideline is 1 to 2 weeks for a wooden house and 3 to 4 weeks for a reinforced concrete structure.
Q. Can the land be sold as a vacant lot after demolition?
Yes. Turning the property into a vacant lot improves marketability and can make it easier to sell. However, note that the residential land tax reduction for fixed asset tax may no longer apply.
Q. What if the building contains asbestos?
Buildings constructed before 2006 may contain asbestos. A prior inspection is mandatory, and removal costs are charged separately.
