Complete Salvage right's belong to the Demolition Contr. at the time of the signing of a contract, unless otherwise specified in the contract. When possible, Post the property and make sure it's secure. Doorknobs, light fixtures and Mantels seem to be the first to go.....Asbestos operations in our area NEED to be supervised at the time of inspections and abatement, if it happens here, it happens there as well. Search for a reptuable insured salvage contractor to buy from demo contractor directly, usually on a house, a crew can be in and out in a day or two. If you can get from $1500-2500 out of a few light fixtures, staircase, Clawfoots and some doors and knobs.....and don't have to do the removal, it's worth it. and then the contract between Demo guy & Salvage Contractor usually requires salvage guy to resecure structure and then get out of his way by the date agreed on. Usually 1/2 down at start..other half of $ when salvage guy is done. If he's nice....it's CASH. and a business relationship is born.
Another good idea is to shoot good detailed pictures at the time of your walk thrus/ pre bids. and immediatly after you get posssesion of the job. Good pictures go a long way when your stuff ends up in the local antique shop or even ebay. I have recovered a few stolen pieces in my time. I have found that it is worth sending your guy or yourself in and get the easy stuff, so someone else don't....including copper....anything expossed, get it out or someone else will that night, word seems to travel fast when a house or structure is coming down.
Just some thought's and personal experiences to share.
Seasons Greetings Members.
Thanks for the site Folks.