This status covers the period between the beginning of demolition work and the end, until the structure is completely disassembled. If demolition work is interrupted for more than one year without any scheduled resumption, the status is changed to 'in ruins'.

Clearance of structural parts or debris from a site is not included in this stage unless part of the original structure still remains intact and rooted to its foundations. This status may also end when construction on a new structure begins on the same site, and the remaining parts of the original structure are recycled into the new structure.

The continuing presence of intact structure separates demolition work from removal of rubble alone. The one-year interruption rule above distinguishes prolonged abandonment without scheduled resumption from continuing demolition.