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Duplex

If your block is zoned at R20 to R60, a duplex home is a viable option.

developments

Duplex development made easy

Whether you are embarking on a duplex development via a battle-axe or side-by-side design, Summit is here to make your next investment venture smooth, affordable and stress-free.

With over 60 years’ experience collectively, Summit is one of WA’s leading duplex home builders and offer a free duplex development site assessment, accurate fixed costs and tailored developments, to assure the best value end to end property investment solutions for your duplex development.

A simple obligation free consultation is all it takes to get started on your development journey.

Please note elevation images are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily what your individual end design might reflect.

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Double the potential of your block with a duplex

If the existing property on your block isn’t sufficient, demolishing it to make way for a duplex development is a popular and simple development decision.

If your block is zoned at R20 to R60, a duplex home can be a viable option.

Generally speaking, doubling the properties on the one block increases equity, and can provide a source of income and tax benefits. You can sell the duplexes for profit, live in one and sell the other, rent each duplex home for an income stream, or perhaps you want to build separation accommodation for family.

Our expert Development Consultants can help you select from a range of duplex designs which is best for your block and budget.

Book your obligation free consultation

Perth duplex home designs by Summit Homes

Subdividing your property for duplex development

Looking to subdivide your property for a duplex development but find the process daunting? Let the Summit developments team help. Our property development team has over 60 years’ experience collectively. They can assist with everything from initial feasibility studies through to connecting your site to utilities.

We’ll work with you to develop a duplex subdivision plan based on your goals, then coordinate the submission of your application to WAPC for separate titles. With a proven track record of success, we can help you make the most of your investment.

Everything you need to know about subdividing

The Summit approach to duplex development

The property development process can be a complex journey, but at Summit Developments, we aim to simplify it for you. If you’re considering a duplex development in Perth, we can guide you through every stage of the process from feasibility and approvals to key handover.

Our team of experts will work with you to create a vision for your project and bring it to life, ensuring that it meets your budget, timeline, and desired outcome. We’ll be with you every step of the way. Check out our page on the duplex development process to learn more about how we can help you achieve your property development goals.

The property development process

Rear strata design in Bayswater, Perth by Summit Developments

Rear & Front Strata Developments

Not sure if you can fit a side-by-side or battle-axe duplex design on your block? Consider rear and front strata developments as an excellent alternative. These developments, of a house behind a house, offer unique opportunities for maximising your property’s potential and making the most of a narrower block.

Our expert team will collaborate with you to design and deliver a rear or front strata development that aligns with your vision. With a proven history of success, Summit Developments can help you unlock the full potential of your investment.

Browse our Rear and Front Strata Designs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a duplex?

A duplex is two separate homes built on one block of land, sharing a common central wall. Each residence has its own front entrance, kitchen, bathrooms and living spaces, functioning as completely independent homes.

Duplexes can be configured as side-by-side or front-and-back layouts, depending on your block size and shape. In Perth, duplex developments are popular for investors seeking dual rental income and/or families wanting multi-generational living arrangements.

What zoning do I need for a duplex development in Perth?

In Perth and Western Australia, you’ll typically need your block zoned between R20 and R60 to build a duplex development. The R-Codes (residential design codes) determines how many dwellings can be built on your land based on factors like block size, frontage width and location.

Different councils across Perth have varying requirements, so a block that qualifies in one suburb might not in another. Summit’s experienced Development Consultants understand Perth’s zoning regulations and can quickly assess whether your specific block is suitable for a duplex, helping you navigate the approval process from the start.

What's the difference between a Strata and Green titled duplex?

Green title means each duplex home sits on its own individual land title, giving owners complete ownership of their dwelling and land. This offers more flexibility for renovations, landscaping and future selling.

Strata title means both homes share the original land title, with ownership divided through a strata scheme. Whilst strata can be simpler initially, it may include strata fees and shared decision-making on common areas.

What is the difference between a duplex and triplex development?

A duplex creates two separate dwellings on one block, whilst a triplex divides the land into three individual homes. Both share the principle of maximising your block’s potential, but the choice depends primarily on your land size and local zoning regulations.

Duplexes are more common in Perth as they require less land and often have simpler approval processes. Triplex developments can deliver greater returns but need larger blocks and higher density zoning. Our Development Consultants can assess your specific block and recommend whether a duplex or triplex suits your goals and budget.

Can I build a duplex on a narrow block in Perth?

Yes, many blocks with narrow frontages in Perth are perfectly suited for duplex developments. Single-storey duplex designs work well on blocks through side-by-side or rear-front configurations, whilst two-storey designs can maximise limited space on narrow blocks.

The key factors are your block’s total size, zoning classification and whether it meets council setback requirements. Some of our most successful duplex projects have been on narrow blocks where thoughtful design makes efficient use of available space. Summit Developments can help assess your block’s dimensions and constraints, then recommend duplex designs that work for your property.

Can you own half a duplex?

Yes, with Green title subdivision, you can own one half of a duplex outright on its own individual land title. This means you have full ownership of your dwelling and the land it sits on, just like a traditional house. You’re not sharing ownership with anyone, and there are no strata fees or shared decision-making.

This arrangement is common for duplex developments in Perth and appeals to both owner-occupiers and investors.

Why choose Summit Developments for my duplex project?

With 47+ years building homes in Perth, we’ve helped countless property owners maximise their block’s potential through duplex developments. Our experienced Development Consultants handle everything – from initial site inspection and feasibility studies through to council approvals, construction and final handover.

We’re built around you, taking time to understand your goals whether you’re investing or creating multi-generational living space. You’ll receive a detailed fixed-price quote before you commit to building with Summit, so you know exact costs upfront. Get in touch with Summit to discuss your duplex development today.

Case Studies

The Summit Developments Team share experience in excess of 60 years and have worked on every kind of development project you can think of. Benefit from their portfolio of work and read case studies of projects which Summit has undertaken.

Rivervale

Summit Developments: Rivervale | Townhouses

Project Overview Zoning: R20 / 40 Lot Area: 1,042 sqm Housing Type: Three larger townhouses This project was designed as...
Hilbert

Summit Developments: Hilbert | Fully Framed Townhouses

Development Type: Townhouses – Grouped Dwellings Lot Area: 860sqm Construction Timeframe: 8 months Build Type: Fully Framed Construction Project Overview Located in the south-eastern suburb of Hilbert,...
Dianella

Summit Developments: Dianella | Single-Story Duplex Development

Development Type: Single-Storey Duplex Zoning: R30 Lot Area: 681m² Project Background A repeat client of Senior Development Consultant Ewan McConnell...
West Leederville

Summit Developments: West Perth | Townhouses

Development Type: Townhouses Grouped Dwellings Zoning: Residential Scheme plan LPS2 Lot Area: 2,173sqm   Project Overview Led by Senior Development Consultant Adrian...
Bayswater

Summit Developments: Bayswater | Single Storey Strata

Development Type: Residential Subdivision Zoning: R30 Lot Area: 4,136sqm Housing Type: Single Storey Strata Project Overview Led by Senior Development...
Nedlands

Summit Developments: Nedlands | Townhouses

Development Type: Medium-scale, infill-built form development Zoning: R60 Lot Area: circa 1,800m2 Housing Type: Townhouses Project Overview Summit Developments partnered...
Margaret River

Summit Developments: Margaret River | Units & Grouped Housing

Development Type: Units Zoning: R40 and R30/R40 Lot Area: 2366m2 and 1276m2 Housing Type: Single-storey strata Development Project Overview Summit...
Bicton

Summit Developments | Bicton: Rear Strata

Rear Strata Development in Bicton by Summit Developments: Case Study Development Type: Rear Strata Zoning: R20 Lot Area: 479 m2 Housing Type:...
Warwick

Triplex in Warwick

Development Type: Grouped Dwellings – Triplex Zoning: R20/ R40 Lot Area: 714m2 Housing Type: Three single storey grouped dwellings This...
Coogee

Grouped housing in Coogee

Development Type: Grouped Dwellings Zoning: R30 Lot Area: 1368 m2 Housing Type: Four single-storey grouped dwellings Timing can be everything when it comes...
Belmont

Duplex in Belmont

Development Type: Grouped Dwellings Zoning: R20/40 Lot Area: 797m2 Housing Type: Two single storey grouped dwellings (duplex) Some development sites are lucky enough to...
Kallaroo

Investment dream in Kallaroo

Clients: Nicola and Paul  Development Type: Duplex Zoning: R20 / R40 Lot Area: 690m2 Housing Type: Subdivided two green title houses. A single storey...

Developments journal

Check out our helpful tips to guide you through your development journey.

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WA’s R-Codes Reforms: What They Mean for Development Potential

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Perth Property Development in 2026: Strategy Now Defines Success

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Why Fully Framed Construction Is the Future in Perth — and How Summit Developments Is Leading the Way

At Summit Developments, we’re dedicated to delivering innovative, high-quality housing that matches Perth’s changing needs. Our recent completion of 7…

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Building Wealth with Your Block of Land You’ve Owned for 10+ Years

If you’ve held onto a block of land in Perth for 10 years or more, there’s a good chance you’re…

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What the Proposed LPS 24 Means for Your Property: Proposed Zoning and Density Changes in the City of Gosnells

The City of Gosnells Draft Local Planning Strategy (LPS 24) outlines how land across the city could be used and developed…

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WINNER: 2024 MBA WA Project Builder of the Year

Summit Homes Group has received the Project Builder of the Year Award from the MBA in Western Australia for the third time! A testament to the team’s dedication to excellence in the home building industry.

Request an appointment

Speak to someone about your plans. Whether you’re considering building, renovating or developing our experts can guide or answer any questions you might have.

08 9317 0141

Head Office & Style Studio

242 Leach Hwy, Myaree WA 6154
Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 2pm
Sunday: Closed

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