When knockdown-rebuild makes sense
A knockdown-rebuild is often the better path when the existing home has structural issues, poor layout that would be expensive to correct, low ceiling heights, asbestos or unstable stumps, or when the land value dwarfs the existing dwelling. If more than roughly 50% of the home would need replacing, a rebuild is often more economical than a full renovation.
Typical process
Feasibility and site inspection, design and documentation, planning permit if required by overlays, building permit, demolition and services disconnect, construction, occupancy certificate, hand-over. Total programme typically six to twelve months depending on scope.
Planning considerations in Melbourne
Most established Melbourne suburbs allow a single dwelling on an existing residential lot as-of-right, but Heritage Overlays, Neighbourhood Character Overlays and Environmental Significance Overlays can trigger a planning permit. Bushfire-prone-area controls apply on some fringe suburbs. Always check the property planning report on VicPlan before committing.
Fixed price contracts
Because a knockdown-rebuild is a major investment, most Melbourne owners insist on a fixed-price contract with a clear scope of inclusions, variations policy and progress payment schedule.
Planning a project? Apollo Builders provides no-obligation fixed price quotes across Melbourne’s South-East.
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