What to Expect During Kitchen Demolition Week: A Toronto Renovation Guide
This article provides a complete overview of what to expect during kitchen demolition week in Toronto, covering planning, permits, daily schedule, cost estimates, and FAQs. Expert advice from Josh Kitchen helps you navigate the first step of your renovation.
Further reading
- Kitchen renovation in Toronto
- Kitchen renovation services
- Aurora kitchen renovation timeline
- Kitchen renovation before & after gallery
- Complete Mississauga kitchen renovation cost guide
Planning Phase – Setting the Stage for Demolition
In Toronto, kitchen demolition doesn't start with a sledgehammer—it begins weeks or even months of planning. First, you need to confirm whether a building permit is required. According to the Ontario Building Code, demolition involving structural walls, electrical, or plumbing modifications typically needs a permit. The City of Toronto requires detailed drawings, with approval usually taking 2 to 4 weeks and costing between $500 and $1,500 CAD. Additionally, you may need to notify neighbors (if in a condominium) and arrange for temporary kitchen facilities. Josh Kitchen recommends contacting a professional team at least three weeks before demolition to ensure all documents are in order.
Design and Ordering – Finalizing Cabinets and Materials Before Demo
Before demolition begins, you must finalize the design and order cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances. This is because the arrival time of new materials directly impacts subsequent construction. In Toronto, custom cabinet fabrication typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, while imported stone countertops may require 4 to 6 weeks. If materials are not ready, the gap after demolition can delay the project. It is recommended to finalize design drawings at least 8 weeks before demolition and sign contracts with suppliers. A typical Toronto kitchen (about 150 sq ft) has cabinet and material costs ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 CAD.
What to Expect During Kitchen Demolition Week in Toronto – Preparation Before Day One
Here is what to expect during kitchen demolition week in Toronto: before day one, you need to complete several key preparations. First, confirm all permits are approved—City of Toronto permit approvals typically take 2-4 weeks. Second, arrange a temporary kitchen, such as setting up a microwave and hot plate in the living room. Third, protect furniture and floors with plastic sheeting over adjacent areas. Fourth, notify neighbors (if in a condo) and coordinate waste removal services. Josh Kitchen suggests confirming all materials are ordered with your contractor to avoid delays. For a recent midtown Toronto condo, our team spent 3 weeks on permit approvals before the first hammer swung.
Daily Demolition Schedule – Day 1 to 5
Day 1: Power and Water Shutoff and Protection
The professional team first shuts off the kitchen's electricity, gas, and water supply, and uses plastic sheeting and plywood to protect adjacent areas. Then they remove all movable items such as refrigerators, ovens, and cabinet doors. According to Toronto fire codes, gas lines must be disconnected by a TSSA-certified technician.
Day 2: Removing Cabinets and Countertops
Old cabinets and countertops are removed. Using crowbars and saws, cabinets are detached from the walls, and stone countertops are carefully handled to avoid breakage. This phase generates a large amount of construction debris, typically filling 2 to 3 8-cubic-yard dumpsters.
Day 3: Removing Flooring and Tile
Tile floors and backsplashes are removed using electric chippers or hammer drills. If asbestos is found (common in older Toronto homes), work must stop immediately and a licensed asbestos abatement company must be hired, costing an additional $2,000 to $4,000 CAD. Asbestos testing costs around $500–$1,000 CAD.
Day 4: Removing Walls and Ceilings
Non-load-bearing walls and old ceilings are removed. At this stage, internal plumbing and electrical wiring are inspected. Josh Kitchen recommends taking photos of all internal structures for future reference. If structural issues are found, an engineer assessment may be needed, costing $1,000–$2,500 CAD.
Day 5: Debris Removal and Cleanup
All debris is loaded and transported to designated landfills. Toronto construction debris disposal fees range from $150 to $250 per ton. After removal, the floor and walls are swept clean in preparation for rough-in work. Ensure all debris is cleared for subsequent construction.
Final Walkthrough – Inspecting the Shell and Preparing for Rough-In
After demolition, a final walkthrough is essential: confirm all structural walls are intact, plumbing and electrical lines are exposed without damage, and floor levelness is within 5 mm tolerance. Then schedule plumbers and electricians for rough-in, including rewiring, installing water lines, and ventilation ducts. Rough-in typically takes 3 to 5 days and costs between $2,000 and $4,000 CAD. Ensure all materials have arrived at this point to avoid delays.
Estimated Toronto Kitchen Demolition Costs
| Scope | Permit Fee | Labour | Disposal | Total Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Kitchen (<100 sq ft) | $500 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $300 – $500 | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| Medium Kitchen (100-200 sq ft) | $1,000 – $1,500 | $2,000 – $3,000 | $500 – $800 | $3,500 – $5,300 |
| Large Kitchen (>200 sq ft) | $1,500 – $2,500 | $3,000 – $5,000 | $800 – $1,200 | $5,300 – $8,700 |
| Notes | Reference City of Toronto fee schedule | Includes demolition and cleanup | $150–$250 per ton | Excludes materials |
FAQs – Common Questions About Kitchen Demolition in Toronto
Q: Do I need to move out during demolition?
A: Not necessarily. You can stay home, but the kitchen area must be sealed off, and you should prepare temporary cooking equipment. In Toronto winters, be aware of potential heating interruptions. If asbestos or structural issues are found, temporary relocation is recommended.
Q: How do I protect floors and walls?
A: Use thick plastic sheeting and plywood to cover adjacent areas. Ensure all vents are sealed to prevent dust spread. Josh Kitchen recommends installing temporary door barriers before demolition.
Q: What happens if asbestos is found?
A: Stop work immediately and hire a licensed asbestos abatement company. According to Ontario regulations, asbestos must be handled by professionals. Costs range from $2,000 to $4,000 CAD, including testing and removal.
Q: How many days does kitchen demolition take?
A: Typically 5 working days, but may extend to 7–10 days if asbestos or structural issues are discovered. Toronto winters may cause weather-related delays.
Q: How do I ensure gas lines are safely disconnected?
A: Per TSSA regulations, gas lines must be disconnected by a certified technician. Confirm with your contractor that they hold TSSA certification.
CTA – Ready to Start Your Toronto Kitchen Renovation? Contact Josh Kitchen Today
Demolition is the most critical step in a Toronto kitchen renovation. Josh Kitchen offers end-to-end services from planning to demolition, ensuring your project stays on time and on budget. Call (647) 838-1083 today for a free consultation and quote. Our team has over 15 years of experience and has helped hundreds of Toronto families achieve their dream kitchens.
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