3. Permits / Building Consent
You will need to apply to your local council for délai permis de construire a building permit, not to mention any additional permits if you want to try and change zoning/land use. If you plan to subdivide as part of the building process it is likely that the council/ state authorities will require you to undertake specific tasks like tree planting depending on which region you build in, so drop by your local council to find out the specific bylaws in your area. Remember- permits are often required when felling native trees!
4. Building Contractors
Finding contractors can be a difficult business, and it is important that you choose wisely. Choosing licensed and registered Master Builders and tradesmen is a good place to start, and make sure you ask around for recommendations.
When you start to take quotes, consider this – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If one quote is a lot cheaper than the others, consider why – are the time frames unreasonable or are they using inferior building products?
If you are planning on doing building work yourself, consider your skill level and employ others for the more specialised areas otherwise it could cost you more in the long run. Even if your trade skills are minimal, you can talk to builders about how you can help out to keep costs down.
5. Groundwork and Foundations
Congratulations, you’re now beginning the build phase! During this time it will be pretty hectic, and unless you are doing the construction yourself you may find this is more of a hands off period. It pays to use an experienced project manager. Do expect delays unless you have a fixed time contract – while we may hope for everything to run on schedule, it’s not uncommon for delays due to weather, delayed shipments or council consent requirements.
It’s important that from this point that you maintain an open line of communication between you and your contractors. If you have a question make sure you ask it. If contractors ask for decisions then make sure you reply quickly. Being slow in responding to questions can increase build costs due to what is called project slippage.
6. Structural Build
Now is when it all starts taking shape. The roof is up and the beams and floor are in. By now you should have most of your whiteware/appliances and fittings (dishwashers, ovens, sinks, tapware, light fittings) chosen ready for installation.
When it comes to appliances do your research. Talk to contractors, use the internet and friends to establish which brands are most suitable for your needs.
7. Fit Out – Gib, plumbing, electrical…
Congratulations, you’re now reaching the home stretch! All your appliances are getting put in, and you’ll be moving in soon… Now just to decide on how to furnish your new home!
When having your home painted ask yourself, is this going to be what will look good in in 5-10 years time. Todays trends may not be what you like in a few years and doing a full paint job again can add un-necessairly to your costs.
8. Furnishing
As you developed the design for your home, you likely visualised how furniture would be laid out, however now it is time to put these designs into place. Decisions will need to be made – carpet or linoleum? What pictures will go where and what window treatments will be the most appropriate. Will you be using curtains or blinds? Will you buy off the rack or have them custom made?
9. Move in Finally!
Time to move in. Whether this house is set to be your long-term home, or a temporary arrangement you’ve finally made it!
You now know the steps involved to successfully build your new home. These questions and this process will now enable you to make more of an informed decision on building a new home should that be what you decide to do.