We moved out in mid September, expecting to begin demolition by the end of October. As it turns out that was a little optimistic, and early November is more realistic. In order to get a demolition permit a few simple-sounding tasks need to be completed. Abatement work to take out any lead or asbestos. This was a matter of writing a fairly modest cheque and waiting a few short days. We are now lead and asbestos free and we've got the holes to prove it. There used to be a lead pipe in that hole A fence needs to go up around the property. Another modest check and not a long wait. The fence is now up - along with a set of construction rules which makes it all seem thrillingly real and like it really might be a construction site - someday. I literally clapped my hands with glee when I saw this fence  A neighbourhood meeting. In the UK this would be a nerve wracking opportunity for nimbies and nostalgia lovers to trash your plans. But here no-one can actually block the project, since we&