Get permission to demolish a building
We are responsible for controlling demolition works in order to protect public safety and amenity, and to ensure adjoining premises and the site are made good on completion of the demolition.
If you intend to demolish a building, you must let us know at least six weeks before starting any works.
How to notify us
You will need to submit a demolition notice form along with a 1:1250 site location plan.
Download the demolition notice form (word)
Please send your completed form and site plan to:
You must also send a copy of your form to the utility services (water, gas and electricity) and the occupier of any adjacent buildings.
Demolition notice fee
A fee of £356 is payable when you have submitted your demolition notice to cover administrative and inspection costs.
How to make a payment
What happens next?
When we receive your demolition notice, we will visit the building to decide whether we need to impose conditions to control the
- process of demolition
- remedial works needed on adjoining buildings
- effect on services
- treatment of the site on completion.
Inspections will be made during the course of demolition and on completion as necessary to ensure that you have met the conditions we have imposed.
We have six weeks to issue a notice of conditions but will aim to do this earlier wherever possible. It is unlawful to start demolition until this notice is given.
Getting advice before you submit an application
Should you wish to discuss your proposal before submitting an application, you can contact us:
Alternatively, you can use our duty building control officer service for general advice on the building regulations.
Other permissions
Listed buildings and conservation areas
If the building to be demolished is listed or situated in a conservation area, permission or special consent may be needed. You will need to get advice from our conservation and historic building team in advance of starting the demolition work:
Tel: 020 7364 5000
Roads and pavements
Should any temporary road closures or alteration to pedestrian routes be necessary, you will need to advise the street services team:
Tel: 0207 364 5000
Our highway maintenance section will inspect the condition of the existing pavements and road surface around the demolition site. Any repairs needed, as a result of the demolition, may be charged to the person carrying out the demolition.
Issues with noise, dust, hours of work or site safety on demolition sites
If you wish to complain about issues with noise, dust, hours of work or site safety on demolition sites, please contact our environmental protection team:
Environmental Protection
Tower Hamlets Town Hall
160 Whitechapel Road
London
E1 1BJ
Tel: 020 7364 5000
Further information
Please refer to: