Site clearing and demolition takeoff from an existing conditions plan

Demolition and clearing set the schedule for everything else on a site, and they are the scopes most often taken off from a glance rather than a measurement. The existing conditions and demolition plans contain enough information to quantify them properly — it just tends to be spread across linework, symbols and notes.

Clearing and grubbing: area first

Take off the clearing area as a closed polygon within the limits of disturbance, and separate wooded area from open field. Grubbing — removing stumps and root mat — is typically limited to the wooded portion and is priced differently.

Count the items with sizes attached

Where a tree survey exists, count trees by caliper range rather than as a single number — a 6" tree and a 36" tree are not the same removal. The same logic applies to fences, signs, light poles, hydrants and structures shown for removal: capture type and size so they can be priced individually.

Trees marked for protection are a quantity, not a zero. Tree protection fencing is measured in LF, and root-zone care requirements can affect adjacent excavation methods.

Quantify disposal, not just removal

1. Convert removals to volume or tonnage: pavement thickness times area, building volume, stump counts times an assumed volume.
2. Decide the disposal path for each material — recycle, crush on site, or haul off.
3. Estimate haul distance and truck counts for off-site disposal.
4. Add tipping fees where applicable; they are frequently the dominant cost.
5. Note any material designated for reuse on site, such as crushed concrete as base.

Utilities, abandonment and the notes

• Existing pipe removal versus abandonment in place, usually with grout or plugs.
• Existing structure removal, including manholes and inlets not being reused.
• Well and septic abandonment, which typically require permits.
• Existing overhead utility relocation coordination.
• Environmental items: known contaminated soil, tanks, or asbestos survey requirements.

Cross-checks

Clearing area should agree with the disturbed acreage in the erosion control plan and with the strip area in your earthwork takeoff. Pavement removal area should agree with the area you excluded from new paving. When those three numbers line up, the front end of your site takeoff is internally consistent — which is usually a good predictor of the rest.