House Behind House vs. Side-by-Side Developments: Which is Right for You?

In Western Australia, homeowners and investors often choose between two main subdivision options: house behind house (HBH) and side-by-side developments. Each approach offers unique advantages, but the best choice depends on factors such as land size, budget, privacy preferences, and long-term goals. In this blog, we’ll break down each type of subdivision to help you determine which option suits your property best.

What Is a House Behind House Development?

A house behind house subdivision is a rear lot development where a second dwelling is built behind the existing home, typically accessed via a long driveway. Commonly known as a battle axe subdivision, this layout resembles a battle axe, with the driveway serving as the “handle” and the rear lot as the “axe head.”

Example

Imagine you own a large residential block with an existing home at the front. By subdividing the property, you create a rear lot accessed via a long driveway running along the side of the front home. This allows you to retain the existing house while developing the land at the rear, making it an excellent way to maximise land use.

Defining Features of House-Behind-House Subdivisions

• Ownership Types: These subdivisions can be freehold (green title) or strata-titled, depending on local council regulations.
• Ideal Property Type: Suited for deep, narrow blocks with limited street frontage, where side-by-side development is not feasible.
• Affordability: More cost-effective than side-by-side subdivisions as they allow you to keep the existing home.
• Privacy: Rear properties offer greater privacy, as they are set back from the street.

Why Homeowners Might Choose a House-Behind-House Subdivision

• Retain the Existing Home: Ideal for families wanting to expand their living arrangements without demolishing the original house.
• Lower-Density Alternative: Offers a more spacious, traditionally box shaped design rather than a longer narrower design.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for multi-generational living, rental income, or maximising land value affordably.

What Is Side-by-Side Development?

Side-by-side development involves dividing a property into two equal or proportionate lots, each with its own street frontage. This subdivision type is typically used on wider blocks and allows for the construction of two independent street front dwellings, often increasing the property’s overall value.

Example

In a side-by-side subdivision, the property is split into two lots, each with its own street frontage. This provides two distinct homes, each with separate driveways and independent access to the road.

Defining Features of Side-by-Side Developments

• Wider Frontage Required: Typically requires at least 10-12 metres of frontage per lot, depending on zoning regulations.
• Independent Dwellings: Homes may be attached (as duplexes) with a shared wall or fully detached, each with its own driveway.
• Ownership: Each lot has the potential of being freehold (green title) lots, though strata options are also available.

Why Homeowners Might Choose a Side-by-Side Subdivision

• Higher Resale Value: Street-front homes generally sell for more and attract greater buyer interest.
• Better Accessibility: Direct street access makes it easier for vehicles, pedestrians, and utilities, reducing infrastructure costs.
• Increased Demand: Homes with street frontage are typically more desirable, making them easier to sell or rent.

Pros and Cons: House Behind House vs. Side-by-Side Developments

House Behind House Development

Pros:

• Lower Costs: Retaining the existing home can reduce overall development expenses.
• More Privacy: Rear dwellings are set back from the street, providing a quieter environment.
• Flexible Use: Ideal for rental income, multi-generational living, or adding value to your land.

Cons:

• No Street Frontage: The rear home may have lower resale value due to limited visibility.
• Shared Driveway Issues: In some cases, driveway access must be shared, potentially leading to maintenance disputes.
• Council Restrictions: Lot size and driveway width requirements vary by local council and may impose limitations.

Side-by-Side Development

Pros:

• Increased Property Value: Both homes have direct street frontage, making them more marketable.
• Easier Access: Independent driveways improve convenience for residents, deliveries, and utilities.
• Higher Demand: Buyers and investors tend to prefer homes with street-facing entrances.

Cons:

• Requires a Wider Block: A minimum lot width is needed, which may limit eligibility.
• Demolition Costs: If the existing home needs to be removed, this can add significant costs.
• Higher Upfront Costs: Compared to house-behind-house developments, side-by-side projects generally involve greater initial expenses.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose House Behind House If:

• You want to retain your existing home and develop the rear lot.
• Your block is deep but not wide enough for a side-by-side subdivision.
• You prefer a more cost-effective way to develop your land while maintaining privacy.

Choose Side-by-Side If:

• Your block has sufficient frontage for two independent homes.
• You’re seeking higher resale value and better marketability with street-facing properties.
• You want separate driveways and direct street access for both homes.

How Summit Developments Can Help

At Summit Developments, we specialise in residential developments, including both house-behind-house and side-by-side subdivisions. Whether you want to maximise your property’s value, create an investment opportunity, or build a multi-generational home, we provide a seamless, end-to-end solution.

Why Choose Summit Developments?

• End-to-End Subdivision Management and Dwelling Construction: We streamline the entire process, from feasibility assessments to final handover of completed properties.
• Council Approvals & Compliance: Our team ensures your project meets all zoning, R-code, and planning regulations.
• Hassle-Free Execution: We manage everything from concept to completion, making subdivision and construction simple and stress-free.

Conclusion

Summit Developments makes the subdivision and construction process smooth and hassle-free. Whether you’re considering a house-behind-house development or a side-by-side subdivision, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to unlock your property’s full potential? Contact Summit Developments today for expert advice and start your subdivision journey with confidence!