A B C's of Subdivision

Before you get started on your strata development, you must be sure the block is able to be subdivided. It is important to understand the building codes that are implemented in your location, and your local council will be able to advise you.

If you’re planning a strata subdivision, make sure you know what needs to be satisfied to get the process through council smoothly.

The building code may vary from one side of the street to the other, so don’t assume just because The Jones’s did a strata subdivision that you can too!

There are a lot of issues that can block or hinder your land subdivision. Possible issues to be aware of:

• Storm water drainage
• Block size – is it large enough to incorporate your rear strata floor plans?
• Driveway – would the existing driveway need to be relocated?
• Zoning
• Easements (walk-ways or parking spaces)
• Encumbrances (minimum and maximum dwelling sizes or type of material to be used)
• Removal of trees (permissions can be required)

From rates and land tax, installing water meters, demolition, surveyors, and titles costs, there are dozens of items to take into account.

It’s important to check, and have a clear idea of how big ticket items such as retaining walls, drainage and engineering requirements will apply to your specific block.

Summit South West local professionals can help put together the bottom line for you and present a holistic picture of what your development looks like in the long run.

Next, you’ll need to know who is likely to purchase your planned house behind house addition. For example, if your building codes allow your block to be subdivided into three lots, it doesn’t necessarily mean that’s what you should do.

If your blocks are in a more affluent area, your buyers may be after a larger section of land. Plus, your choice of rear strata floor plans will generally be better with generous size of land.

Also consider if your buyers are likely to be investors or owner-occupiers. This will impact your decisions on the quality of the finishes of the house on your strata development.

House behind house developments are a great way to maximise the potential of your block. But to make it a success, you need the right piece of land to subdivide, the right timing and most importantly – the right advice from the best strata builders.

Summit  has more than $500 million of successful developments to its name, as specialist house behind house builders. If you’re starting out in property development, we can talk you through the process from start to finish, including building codes, site works  and rear strata home designs.