In commercial demolition, time is money. A few days of delay can ripple into weeks of stalled construction, missed deadlines, and unexpected costs.
At MBR Wrecking, we’ve seen it all — and we’ve built our process to help clients avoid the most common pitfalls before they become problems.
Here are the top 5 reasons commercial demo jobs get delayed — and how you can stay ahead of them:
1. Utility Disconnect Delays
The problem: Before any structure can be safely torn down, gas, electric, water, and sewer lines must be properly disconnected. This isn’t just a safety measure — it’s the law. But scheduling utility shut-offs (especially in a place like Chicago) often involves multiple departments, lead times, and paperwork.
How to avoid it: Work with a contractor who knows the city’s utility systems inside and out. At MBR, we handle all the coordination and paperwork early in the process so disconnections don’t hold things up later.
2. Permit Complications
The problem: Commercial demo permits can be complex, especially if the structure is large, historically designated, or in a tightly regulated zone. Missing one document can put a job on hold for days or even weeks.
How to avoid it: Partner with a demolition team that knows the local process cold. We’ve pulled permits in cities and suburbs all across Illinois — we know what’s needed, who to call, and how to move quickly.
3. Surprise Asbestos or Hazards
The problem: If asbestos or lead is discovered after a job begins, everything stops. Testing and remediation must happen before demo can proceed — and it can take time to bring in a licensed team.
How to avoid it: Always test early. We recommend asbestos inspections as part of pre-demo planning. MBR can coordinate testing and, if needed, remediation — before it stalls the schedule.
4. Access & Equipment Issues
The problem: Tight alleyways, limited street space, or soft ground can restrict heavy machinery access. If your contractor doesn’t plan ahead, equipment delays or re-routing can eat up valuable time.
How to avoid it: A proper site visit before contract signing. We scope out equipment access and staging areas during our first walk-through so there are no surprises once demo day comes.
5. Debris Hauling Bottlenecks
The problem: Demo is just the beginning. If your team can’t quickly remove debris, your project stalls. Overflowing dumpsters, long waits for pickups, or poor coordination with haulers can add days of downtime.
How to avoid it: We plan for haul-away logistics from day one. MBR coordinates debris removal with local haulers to keep the job moving and your site clean.
Planning Makes the Difference
Delays don’t have to be part of the process. When demolition is planned with intention — and executed by a team that’s seen every scenario — projects stay on track.
Need help keeping your timeline intact? Get in touch with MBR Wrecking — Chicago’s trusted demo partner for commercial jobs done right.
