Reading about a new project does not mean a building is coming down. An expansion, a renovation and a teardown can all look similar at first. Sorting them correctly saves you time.
A confirmed lead
A lead has clear evidence that an existing building will be demolished: a stated teardown in the plans, a demolition permit application, or a clearance for new construction. You know the address, you can estimate the size, and the owner or developer is identifiable.
A watchlist item
A watchlist item signals work to come, but not a full teardown. Examples include an approved building expansion, a rezoning that makes redevelopment possible, or a sale to a developer with no plans filed yet. There may still be interior demolition, strip-out and scrap removal ahead, so these projects are worth tracking.
An updated project
Projects change. An item you saw months ago may have received a new approval or a permit. We mark these as Updated and say what changed, so you know whether it is moving toward construction.
Clues that point to a real teardown
- Plans that describe removing the existing structure.
- A demolition permit application on file.
- A replacement building, often residential or warehouse.
- Abatement or utility work scheduled for the site.
Clues that it is not a teardown
- Language such as expansion, addition or renovation, with the existing building staying in operation.
- Coverage that says directly that the building is not being demolished.
- Only a change of use for a building that remains.
Why labels matter
If every item is called a lead, you spend time on dead ends. Honest labels let you put your effort where it counts and keep an eye on the rest.
See what a researched demolition lead looks like
One page: address, size, stage and the people to call.
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