I've demoed several buildings in the past, my first was a root cellar when I was 13. If you are looking to get experience I'd say go for it. From what you've said it sounds like the house is being lived in so it will have active/live utilities, power, water, sewer and maybe natural gas/propane/fuel oil. You will need to make sure that they are shut off before you start demolishing things. It will make for an intersting day and not in a good way if you cut/sever/break an active utility line. Depending upon the age of the house you may find asbestos in the house, on the furnace, on pipe joints, in floor tiles, and in spray on texturing on the ceiling just to name a few of the most common locations.
The electrical system in the house, again depending upon the age of the house may range from tube and post, to aluminum to romex. (I have all three types in my house, or did until we had the electrical redone.) Tube and Post is a PITA to remove, you have to physically find each post and pull it out or cut the wire at each post.
The plumbing can also be a huge pain to deal with depending on the age of the house, as an example in my house I have galvanized, copper, and plastic piping.
Another thing to be aware of is it will be dusty, I'd recommend at least a dust mask and if you can a half face respirator. Gloves and eye protection are also a must. Also knee pads are helpful if you spend any time crawling around.
A sawzall with a good assortment of blades, sledge hammer, crowbar/pry bar, and basic hand tools will make the job easier.
Finally I salute you for your willingness to tackle this job and am looking forward to a report on how it goes. Best of luck
Originally Posted by Haztech5
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