Interior demolition costs $2 to $8 per square foot or $1,000 to $5,000 for an average demolition project. Obviously, the more you demolish and the greater the difficulty, the higher price. A small or simple demo project may include removing a single wall or the flooring in a room. A large or more complex demo project may include gutting the kitchen or removing a fireplace and chimney.

The final cost of your interior demolition will also be impacted by the labor you hire and the age of your home. Hiring a certified professional is more expensive, but worth the cost to ensure your demo is done safely, especially in an older home that may suffer more damage during demolition.

Finally, as with any project, there may be unforeseen expenses like mold remediation or asbestos removal that can greatly increase the final costs. An experienced demolition contractor is better at inspecting the property and pointing out potential issues than an inexperienced crew or homeowner.

The best way to save money on a demo project is to do some of the work yourself. Simple projects like removing wallpaper, pulling up carpet, or taking down closet shelving are easy DIY tasks and not worth paying a professional to do. Instead, save the heavier or more labor intensive jobs for the paid contractor. Projects like removing countertops and cabinets requires several crew members and can cause damage if not done properly.

Another way to save money on your project is to salvage and resell your old cabinets, countertops, or lighting fixtures that are still in good shape. If you don't want to resell them, consider donating the materials and appliances to a charity like Habitat for Humanity where they will be of use to a family in need.

In most cases, you will need a permit for interior demolition, depending on your location. The permit process involves submitting the following documents to your local Building Department:

• A demolition plan showing the location of any walls or other structures being removed.
• A floor plan that details the existing conditions and proposed changes.
• A copy of your property deed
• Proof of homeowner's insurance
• Proof of fee payment

Once you have obtained a demolition permit, you will need to post it on your property in a visible location. Regardless of whether or not you need a permit, you must still follow other regulations, such as those governing asbestos removal. Consult with a qualified contractor or inspector to ensure you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. 

While you can save money by doing interior demolition yourself, it is not recommended unless you have the necessary DIY skills, tools, and safety equipment. Demolition can be dangerous, messy, and time-consuming. Hiring a qualified contractor ensures no one is hurt and the home doesn't sustain any structural damage.

A certified demolition contractor will help you keep your project on time and on budget. 

When hiring a demolition company for your interior demo project, look for a company with years of demolition experience and a good reputation for quality workmanship. Here are some additional suggestions to help you find the best company for your project:

• Compare at least 3 estimates from licensed, bonded, and insured demo companies. 
• Browse company reviews from past clients on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask for a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the demolition begins.
• Never pay in full upfront, instead work out a payment plan for work completed.

An interior demolition project is a big commitment, both of your time and your finances. Don't hand over that responsibility to a novice. Instead, look for an experienced and certified professional and ask these important questions to ensure you hire the right contractor:

• How long have you been doing interior demolition?
• How many interior spaces did you work on in the last year?
• Do you charge an hourly labor rate or a flat fee?
• Do you have the necessary licensure, insurance, and surety bonds?
• Does your estimate include dumpster rental and waste disposal?
• What happens if you find asbestos in my attic insulation during the demo?
• How long will the demolition take?
• Can I salvage the counters or cabinets for another project?
• Will you provide a list of past clients with contact details?