Deconstruction

Deconstruction is like construction in reverse! It involves the careful dismantling of a building so that materials can be salvaged for reuse rather than dumped in a landfill. With deconstruction, up to 80% of a home, including structural lumber, framing and bricks, can be recovered in reusable condition.

BENEFITS

Choosing deconstruction over demolition has significant environmental, social, and economic benefits, including:

• Conserving precious natural resources
• Diverting usable materials from area landfills
• Creating good, green jobs
• Making building materials available at low or no cost to those in need
• Helping to avoid costly dumping fees
• Providing the donor with a significant tax deduction

In order to proceed with a deconstruction and donation, the first steps are to speak with your personal contractor/builder, a contractor that specializes in deconstruction, and with an independent third-party appraiser who is qualified to appraise the value of the materials to be donated. Because the tax deduction associated with a deconstruction can be substantial, you should consult with a tax professional before making a final decision.