What does knockdown and rebuild mean?
Knockdown and rebuild describes the process of tearing down an existing structure and constructing a new one in its place. It’s also known as demolish and build.
This is a popular option for homeowners in established areas of Perth where available land is scarce. Rather than relocating, homeowners can choose to remain in their cherished neighbourhood while updating their home design to meet current standards and personal preferences.
How long does a demolish and build take?
How long a typical demolish and build project in Perth will take varies, depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the new home design, weather conditions, and any unforeseen challenges that may arise during construction.
Generally, the process can take anywhere from several months to over two years. It involves several key stages, including:
- Obtaining necessary permits
- The physical demolition of the old structure
- Site preparation, and finally;
- Construction of the new home
The demolition itself is usually the quickest part, often completed within a few days or weeks.
The subsequent stages of clearing the site, obtaining necessary approvals, and constructing the new home are more time-consuming.
Working with experienced demolish and build builders and ensuring all plans are finalised before beginning the demolition project can help streamline the process.
Does it take longer than a renovation?
Whether a knockdown and rebuild takes longer than a renovation will depend on the size and scope of both projects. Generally speaking, a demolish and rebuild will take longer than a standard renovation because it’s likely to be more complex. Even simple builds will feature the entire construction process, from demolition through to sitework, foundation work, framing, plumbing, electricals and finishings.
There are also likely to be more permits required.
How long do I need to move out for?
Again, how long you need to move out for will depend on what’s involved in your demolish and build. You’ll definitely need to be out of the premises during the demolition process.
You will also need to be somewhere else during the rebuild phases, which can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the project, labour and tradespeople availability, weather and council approvals. We recommend setting aside at least a year to be out of your home. The longer you are absent, the quicker the build process can be. As soon as you move back in, factors such as site safety and making things good by the close of each day have to be taken into account.
How much does knockdown and build cost?
How much it costs to demolish a house can vary widely based on factors like the size of the property, the age and condition of the existing structure, and the design and materials chosen for the new home.
How much does it cost to demolish a house?
Demolition costs alone can range from $15,000 to $35,000. The costs will depend on the size and structure of the property, whether there are any hazardous materials or waste to be disposed of, and how easy it is to access the site.
How much does it cost to rebuild a house?
The cost to build a new home can vary from $1,800 to $5,000 per square metre or more. It really depends on the level of specification within the home, the size of the home and so on.
Additional costs may include fees for permits, design services, and potential upgrades to utilities.
It’s crucial to consult with builders and obtain a comprehensive quote before commencing the project to understand and budget for the total costs involved.
What’s included in demolition?
A demolition doesn’t just mean knocking down a building; it’s a process with several stages. Firstly, there will be a site assessment, inspecting the area for hazards or dangerous materials. Before the building is demolished, any hazardous material will need to be removed, all the utilities will have to be disconnected, permits acquired and safety measures put in place.
These safety measures will likely include fencing or safety barriers, dust control and other precautions to stop workers being exposed to dangerous materials. Once the site has been demolished, demolition also includes site clean up, making sure that all waste materials have been removed and the site is level.
Is it cheaper to renovate?
While knocking down an existing property sounds expensive and complex, you will be pleased to learn that building a brand new home is comparable, and often less expensive, than attempting a complicated renovation project.
There are also additional financial benefits to consider when weighing up the pros and cons of detonating or renovating. Unlike buying and selling an existing property there are very few transaction costs or fees associated with the demolish and build process and the added benefit of no stamp duty.
You should also consider everything that a brand new home offers, such as energy efficient design for lower power bills and of course the latest in technology as we move towards the era of the ‘smart home’.
What if we want to retain some original features?
It’s natural that you might want to retain some of your ordinal features, even if you have committed to demolishing and rebuilding. Outside features like retaining walls, trees and bores can often be kept, but you must raise this with your demolition contractor early on so they know what needs to stay.
Internal features
It may be possible for you to salvage some of the internal features that you want to keep yourself, before the demolition takes place. Ovens, cupboards, fixtures and fittings can all be removed. You can ask your contractor to remove them (usually at a cost) or take care of it yourself.
Structural items like sconces or beams will need to be discussed with your contractor. Make sure you approach them early so that their retention or safe removal can be factored into the demolition.
What approvals do I need?
There are a number of different approvals required for a demolition. The first thing you need is a demolition permit (BA5). You, or your contractor, will need to apply to your local council for this permit.
You may also need WorkSafe WA permits, as specialised permits should you need to clear your site of hazardous materials. Depending on your demolish and rebuild, you may need heritage listing clearance. Your local council can provide a list of the permits that your site will need.
Novus Homes takes responsibility for all the permits their demolition and rebuild projects require.
Who organises cancelling utilities?
Your contractor should take responsibility for cancelling your utilities, which will need to be done approximately seven days before you leave the home, so that a final reading can be taken.
How Novus Homes can help
Novus Homes has extensive experience in knockdown and rebuild projects in Perth. We take you through the process step by step, beginning with a meeting on site to provide feedback on the process and indicative costs.
Upon approval, we will take a full site survey to help us identify all possible site works costs, separate to the price of constructing your dream home.
We follow your design brief to provide you with a 3D elevation of your design, featuring setbacks from boundaries for compliance and front and backyard areas. We then supply a full quote for all works, before coordinating the demolition process and taking care of all necessary approvals.
If you've decided to knock down your old house and build your new dream home please don't hesitate to get in touch or call one of our friendly sales consultants on (08) 9240 8001.
We've built many custom and double-storey homes after knocking down the existing home for our clients in Perth, so let's see if we are a good fit for your project.