Protecting Our Neighbors and the Environment

We are proud that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized Detroit's demolition program as one of the safest in the country, due to the many steps we take to protect our residents and the environment:

 

  • Removing asbestos: Every non-emergency demolition today has all safely accessible hazardous asbestos removed prior to demolition. 
  • Advance notice: Contractors are required post door hangers no less than 3 days prior to demolition to let neighbors know what they can do to avoid any dust or other potential health concerns.
  • Dust control: The city requires that houses undergoing demolition be sprayed with water before and during demolition to keep dust down, and that the debris is sprayed as it is loaded up and hauled away.
  • Stiff penalties. Nothing matters more to us than the health and safety of our residents. Contractors caught violating Detroit Demolition Department requirements are suspended or terminated from Detroit’s demolition program. Neighbors are encouraged to report any problems during or after demolition.