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“How do I go about getting plans approved?”

How do I go about getting plans approved?

Planning a construction project in Sydney, Australia? Understanding the process of getting your plans approved is crucial for a smooth and successful outcome. In this guide, we’ll explore the timeline for plan approval, common reasons for rejection, and how to check the status of your development application in Sydney.

What is the Timeline for Getting Plans Approved in Sydney?

The timeline for plan approval in Sydney can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your project and the workload of the local council. Generally, the process involves several stages, the process typically includes the following:

  • Pre-Development Consultation: Initial consultations with the local council and relevant authorities, along with obtaining necessary reports or studies.
  • Lodgement of Development Application (DA): Submission of a detailed DA to the local council or the NSW Department of Planning, including comprehensive plans and specifications for the proposed development.
  • Assessment: Evaluation of the application against relevant planning and building codes, environmental considerations, and other constraints.
  • Public Notification: Depending on the project’s scale, public notification and feedback may be required.
  • Determination: Decision-making by the council or department after considering all factors and feedback.
  • Construction: Commencement of construction after receiving approval.
  • Occupation: Final inspection and issuance of an Occupational Certificate certifying the building’s compliance with health and safety standards for occupancy.

On average, it may take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks for plans to be approved. Please note that this timeline can be extended if additional information or revisions are needed.

What are the Common Reasons for Plan Rejection?

There are several common reasons why plans may be rejected by the council in Sydney:

  • Non-compliance with zoning regulations or building codes.
  • Insufficient information or documentation was provided with the application.
  • Adverse impact on the local environment or heritage significance.
  • Concerns raised by neighbouring residents or community stakeholders.
  • Failure to address conditions imposed by the council or relevant authorities.
  • Ensuring that your plans are well-prepared and comply with all relevant requirements can help minimise the risk of rejection.

Factors Influencing Approval Timelines

Several factors can affect the time taken to get plans approved in Sydney. These may include:

  • Project Complexity: More complex projects may require additional review time to ensure compliance with regulations and standards.
  • Council Workload: The workload of the local council or planning authorities can impact approval timelines, especially during peak periods.
  • Community Consultation: Projects that require community consultation or input may experience delays in the approval process.
  • External Consultants: Depending on the nature of the project, the involvement of external consultants such as engineers or environmental experts may influence approval timelines.

Navigating the plan approval process in Sydney requires careful consideration of these factors and proactive management of the submission process. By understanding the timeline, common reasons for rejection, and factors influencing approval timelines, you can streamline the process and increase the likelihood of successful approval for your project. Remember to engage with experienced professionals and adhere to regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth approval process.

When undertaking a construction project, having a reliable partner can make all the difference in navigating the plan approval process.

At Wal Robbins, we understand the importance of a smooth and efficient approval process for our clients. Our team of experienced professionals is well-versed in Australia’s regulations and works diligently to ensure that your plans meet all requirements before submission.

From the initial consultation to final approval, we provide comprehensive support with every step of the way. By partnering with Wal Robbins, you can rest assured that your project is in capable hands, allowing you to focus on bringing your vision to life while we handle the intricacies of plan approvals. Let us be your trusted ally in achieving your construction goals in Australia.

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Renovate or detonate? Signs are positive for a NSW home renovation boom

Renovation market boom

In recent research by the Master Builders Association, there could be a NSW home renovation boom. Despite the economic challenges Australians are facing, conditions are now more favourable for homeowners to invest in the renovation projects they have been dreaming about. A large proportion of this housing stock is 30 or more years old and ripe for renovation. And as rising interest rates continue will home buyers be more likely to invest into these older properties?

There is no question that the interest rate hikes have impacted the new home-building sector. As of March 2023, in NSW there are only 2599 new home Building Approvals, down 32.4% from January 2022. (Master Builders Australia, Building and Construction NSW, March 2023). Together with everyday cost of living constraints home buyers are thinking twice about the cost of building a new house.

The question is, do rising interest rates affect the Home Renovations market? The answer is clear in the fact that as of March 2023 in NSW $326.6 million is being spent on Home Renovations, which is up +9.6% from January 2022. (Master Builders Australia, Building and Construction NSW, March 2023). With the renovation market growing, now is the perfect time to rethink your business strategy.

 

Looking at the NSW home renovation boom

In Sydney, we take a deeper look into where the homeowners are spending the most on renovations. The current total greater Sydney value of approvals for major home renovations is $2,257,671,700 (ABS Total value of building approvals for residential alterations, additions and conversions: July 2022 to April 2023). In no particular order, these are just some of the suburbs:

 

SuburbTotal value of approvals for major home renovations ($)
North
North Mosman – North$20,758,500
Avalon – Palm Beach$35,756,400
Manly – Fairlight$28,730,900
Gordon – Killara$18,582,200
East
East Rose Bay – Vaucluse – Watsons Bay$43,318,500
Coogee – Clovelly$24,232,800
Bondi Junction – Waverly$13,898,100
Randwick – North$18,869,500
South
South Redfern$29,149,300
Surry Hills$14,302,000
South Hurstville – Blakehurst$7,454,000
Cronulla – Kurnell – Bundeena$15,426,900
Inner West
Haberfield – Summer Hill$17,939,400
Balmain$21,600,400
Petersham – Stanmore$24,523,100
Five Dock – Abbotsford$12,218,700
North West
Dural – Kenthurst – Wisemans Ferry$15,755,100
Kurrajong Heights – Ebenezer$7,877,300
Pennant Hills – Cheltenham$9,191,000
Baulkham Hills – East$7,705,200
West
Guildford West – Merrylands West$25,354,300
Northmead$6,300,800
Springwood – Winmalee$7,266,600
Blaxland – Warrimoo – Lapstone$6,752,700
South West
Camden – Ellis Lane$8,110,500
Bradbury – Wedderburn$12,007,800
Picton – Tahmoor – Buxton$8,132,400
Bonnyrigg Heights – Bonnyrigg$4,722,600
Central Coast
Erina – Green Point$7,868,200
Umina – Booker Bay – Patonga$8,676,200
Avoca Beach – Copacabana $7,879,100
Terrigal – North Avoca$11,183,100
ABS Total value of building approvals for residential alterations, additions and conversions: July 2022 to April 2023.

These figures only include values for renovations where the work is substantial enough to necessitate building approval from the relevant local government which means the total market has an even larger potential for business growth and opportunity.

In 2023 more favourable weather predictions are expected with the La-Nina rain pattern well and truly behind us. This means fewer interruptions for renovations. The availability of most building materials is also reported to recover in 2023. Although there are indications that some upmarket products in tapware, hinges, door furniture and tiles could still be an issue with ordering timeframes. We recommend checking with suppliers of materials for availability and cost before committing to kitchen and bathroom designs.

For more information about renovations, including extensions and additions, contact us online or call Wal Robbins on 02 8607 7197.

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“What is the cheapest way to build an extension?” Ground Floor Extensions

Ground floor extensions

As our families grow and evolve, our homes must adapt to accommodate their changing needs. Ground floor extensions offer an array of benefits for family homes, providing versatile spaces that can truly transform the way we live. Here we explore the positives of ground floor extensions, comparing them to first-floor additions, and examine how they can enhance the flow and functionality of your home. Whether you’re considering adding an extra bedroom, bathroom, or even completely revamping your living space, ground floor extensions offer an appealing solution for growing families.

 

Enhanced Accessibility and Convenience

One of the primary advantages of ground floor extensions is their accessibility. By expanding horizontally instead of vertically, you can avoid the need for stairs, making your home more accessible for all family members, including ageing parents or individuals with mobility challenges. This convenience ensures that everyone can move freely throughout the house, fostering a sense of inclusivity and togetherness.

 

Seamlessly Blend with Existing Spaces

Ground floor extensions allow for a harmonious integration of new and existing areas of your home. By extending the ground floor, you can create a natural flow that seamlessly connects the extended space with the rest of your house. This integration ensures that your extension feels like a cohesive part of your home rather than an addition tacked on.

 

Catering to Changing Family Dynamics

A ground floor extension provides the perfect opportunity to cater to changing family dynamics. For families with teenagers or young adults living at home longer, an additional bedroom or bathroom on the ground floor can help alleviate the strain on shared spaces. This newfound privacy can foster a sense of independence and reduce conflicts arising from limited personal space.

 

Welcoming Ageing Parents

As our parents grow older, many families face the decision of how best to support them while maintaining their independence. A ground floor extension can accommodate ageing parents, allowing them to have their own living space while still being connected to the rest of the family. With appropriate modifications, such as widened doorways or accessible bathrooms, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for older family members.

 

Transformational Possibilities

Beyond accommodating immediate needs, ground floor extensions offer exciting opportunities for larger-scale renovations. Imagine extending the back of your home and creating an open-plan living area that integrates a modern kitchen. Such a transformation can completely change the way you utilise the space, creating a central hub for family gatherings and entertaining guests.

 

Pros and Cons of Ground Floor Extensions vs. First Floor Additions

While ground floor extensions have numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the pros and cons when compared to first floor additions. Ground floor extensions typically require less structural work and are often more cost-effective, as they eliminate the need for extensive foundation adjustments or reinforcements. Additionally, ground floor extensions have the advantage of providing direct access to outdoor spaces, enhancing the connection between your home and garden.

Ground floor extensions are a fantastic solution for family homes seeking to adapt to changing needs and embrace a warm, inclusive atmosphere. From adding an extra bedroom or bathroom to accommodate growing children or ageing parents, to completely reimagining your living space, ground floor extensions offer practicality and versatility. Their seamless integration with existing areas and enhanced accessibility make them an appealing choice for families looking to enhance the flow of their homes.

For all your ground floor extension needs, Wal Robbins is the expert you can trust. With years of experience and a passion for creating spaces that perfectly suit your family, Wal Robbins can help you transform your house into a welcoming and functional home.

 

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Adding Value to Your Home: Exploring Construction Types

Types of construction

In the quest to enhance the quality and value of our homes, the construction world presents a plethora of options. Today, we will journey through four popular construction types: first floor additions, ground floor extensions, alterations and renovations. 

 

First Floor Additions

First floor additions involve adding an entirely new level to an existing single-storey home. This provides significant added living space and can effectively double your usable floor area. A well-executed first floor addition can boost your property’s market value substantially. However, such projects come with a few challenges. They often require considerable time and financial investment, making them the priciest option among the four. Residents may also have to temporarily relocate during construction due to the substantial structural changes involved. 

 

Ground Floor Extensions

Ground floor extensions expand the footprint of your home horizontally, often creating an open-plan living area or extra rooms. This option generally increases property value as it provides additional living space without altering the fundamental structure. Ground floor extensions typically cost between $1,500 to $2,500 per square meter. While these projects may cause some disruption to your daily routine, residents can usually stay in their homes during construction, making this a more feasible option for families. 

 

Alterations

Alterations involve changing the internal layout of your home without adding to the floor space. They can significantly improve the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. Alterations may involve creating an open plan living area, removing or adding walls, or moving rooms. Costs vary greatly depending on the scale, but minor alterations can start from as low as $20,000. As with ground floor extensions, residents can typically stay in their homes during construction. Although alterations may not directly increase the floor space, a well-designed alteration can enhance the home’s usability, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

 

Renovations

Renovations involve upgrading the existing structure and fixtures of a home. This can range from simple cosmetic changes like repainting and reflooring, to more complex projects such as upgrading the kitchen or bathroom. Renovations, if well-executed, can dramatically improve the look and feel of your home and consequently, increase its market value. Costs can vary widely, from as low as $10,000 for minor cosmetic changes to upwards of $100,000 for extensive remodels. The disruption level is also variable, depending on the scope of the renovation. 

In all these projects, choosing the right construction team is paramount. That’s where Wal Robbins steps in. With years of expertise in delivering high-quality first floor additions, ground floor extensions, alterations, and renovations, Wal Robbins ensures your home improvement project is executed with precision and to your complete satisfaction. So why wait? Add value to your property today. Contact Wal Robbins and experience the expert touch in home construction.

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