Separate assessment, temporary safety, demolition, spoil, excavation, drainage correction, professional work, rebuild and reinstatement. Existing failure can reveal conditions that were not visible at quote time, so variation rules matter.
The replacement sequence
- Record symptoms and protect people from an unstable area.
- Establish whether professional assessment or temporary works are needed.
- Define demolition, spoil handling and access protection.
- Confirm founding, drainage and the new wall design basis.
- Reinstate surfaces, fences, landscaping and drainage connections.
Costs unique to replacement
An existing wall can restrict access and may support soil, paving, fences or services that must remain protected. Disposal cost depends on material, contamination, volume, access and local facilities. Drainage defects may need correction beyond the footprint of the old wall.
Quote unknowns honestly
Ask each provider to identify what can be priced now, what remains provisional and how discoveries will be documented. A provisional excavation or spoil item is more useful than a low fixed total that excludes every uncertain condition.
What to record before seeking quotes
- Dimensions
Length, average retained height and how the dimensions were measured. - Earthworks
Excavation, spoil quantity, disposal, temporary support and site protection. - Drainage
Aggregate, geotextile, pipe, outlets and stormwater connections stated separately. - Professional scope
Engineering, geotechnical input, certification and approvals included or clearly excluded. - Commercial scope
GST, payment stages, variations, programme, warranty and exclusions.
Keep people away from the affected area and seek appropriate professional or emergency guidance where movement could endanger people or property.