How Much Does Shed Removal Cost? [2024 Data]

Shed Removal Cost Factors

Photo: ucpage / iStock / Getty Images

Shed removal costs vary considerably depending on multiple factors. Consider the following when working out if the quotes you receive seem fair.

Size

Shed removal costs range from around $3.50 to $11.50 per square foot, and it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the bigger the shed, the more the removal will cost. Small sheds won’t require much labor, special equipment, or large disposal trucks.

It’s worth noting, however, that many companies have a minimum flat-rate fee, often starting around $250 or more. So, if your shed is very small, it might cost more than the lower per-square-foot price point. Here’s what you can expect to pay for some common shed sizes.

Shed Material and Construction

Sheds are typically made from wood, metal, or vinyl. Metal sheds might cost more to remove because shifting large metal sheets often requires additional labor, and disposal fees can be higher for heavier materials. If you plan to salvage and recycle materials from a wooden garage, this could also increase the price because more care and time in dismantling is required. Simple prefab sheds vs. complex custom builds will likely be easier and quicker to bring down.

Location of Shed

If your shed sits at the bottom of a long, narrow yard where vehicle access is tricky, the removal company may charge more. They must factor in the extra time and effort to haul the dismantled sections through the yard to reach the dumpster truck.

Labor

While most contractors charge by square foot, others charge hourly for their time. This typically works out between $50 to $100 per hour. 

Tipping

While you certainly don’t have to tip your junk haulers, it can be a nice gesture if you feel they’ve done an exceptional job. Consider tipping each worker $20 if you’re very pleased with the work, but don’t feel obligated to—after all, you’ve already paid for the service.

Concrete Foundation 

If your building has been sitting on a concrete foundation that you want to be broken down and taken away, expect shed removal costs to be considerably higher. Removing this heavy material requires more time and tools, and the extra weight in the dumpster can also factor into the price. Concrete removal costs around $2 to $6 per square foot.

Shed Condition

It might seem counterintuitive, but if you want to be rid of a large old shed with a sagging roof or rotting wooden framework, don’t be surprised if the pros need to charge more. There is an increased risk of injury from structural collapse, and more care is required when pulling it down. The same might apply to rusty metal sheds with sharp, exposed edges.

Permits

Don’t land yourself with a bigger bill by breaking the rules. Always check with your local building department what the regulations are for shed removal. While they vary by state, you often need a permit to remove a shed—especially when it is a more significant structure. The cost for a building permit of this type ranges from $100 to $500, but it could be more for a big shed hooked up to utilities and with a concrete foundation.

Utility Connection

For sheds wired for electricity or with plumbing, these utilities require safe disconnection before dismantling can begin. You might need to hire an electrician near you or a plumber to ensure this is handled appropriately. The cost to hire an electrician or a plumber is typically between $50 and $100 per hour.

Asbestos

There’s a possibility your old shed could contain hazardous asbestos—especially if it has been there since before 1970 and the side paneling or roof has cement components. If there is any doubt, an inspection should take place. Professional asbestos removal costs for outdoor projects typically range from $50 to $150 per square foot. 

Landscaping

After the shed is gone, you’ll likely be left with an unsightly muddy patch. You might want to hire a landscaper to clean up the space and replant. Professional landscaping costs an average of $4.50 and $12 per square foot.

Shed Contents

If your large shed is full of old junk and you want that gone, too, make sure you factor this into your final budget. Often, the same company will move shed contents—providing the items aren’t hazardous—but they might need a bigger dumpster, which will take extra time to clear out. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Remove a Shed

If you’ve got the tools and the time, you can save by removing a shed yourself. However, you’ll likely still have to pay for junk removal or rent a dumpster. Junk removal costs an average of $240, and dumpster rental costs an average of $380 per week, but you might be able to get a daily dumpster rate.

If you have a large van and your shed is small, you could even take the pieces to a local recycling center or landfill, meaning the job only costs you your time.

Just like shed building, removal of these constructions isn’t always a DIY job. You need the right tools, assistance, and know-how, especially for big sheds. Saving a few bucks isn’t worth running the risk of causing injury. And without sufficient construction knowledge, there’s a chance of a saggy roof or heavy metal walls collapsing in on you. Plus, it's a physically demanding project that isn’t easy to tackle single-handedly.

Unless your shed is a small, basic construction or you are an old hand at these sorts of projects, calling in a professional junk removal service near you is a prudent investment.

Tips to Reduce Shed Removal Costs

There are other ways to shave your shed removal costs other than trying to DIY the project. Below are some money-saving tips worth considering:

• Shop around. It pays to get quotes from multiple reputable junk removal companies offering shed dismantling services. Prices can vary considerably.

• Sell your shed. If it is in good condition, you can make some money and have the buyer dismantle and remove it. 

• Salvage. Sell reclaimed lumber and metal to timber merchants or scrap metal yards. Hold on to parts of the shed that these companies might collect and pay for.

• Bulky uplift. Local authorities often offer an annual free bulky uplift service. If you time your shed disposal with this service (and the materials fit within their remit), you will only have to pay for dismantling and not disposal. 

• Bulk discount. By arranging other yard waste removal or getting rid of other bulky items simultaneously, you could make savings across the board.