Tag: Construction

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Outdoor living

How to build a backyard chicken coop

Chickens are an excellent addition to a small farm or backyard in areas where they are allowed. Before your poultry journey begins, you need to construct a chicken coop and chicken enclosure, or chicken hutch, to keep them safe and happy. This is a project that you can do yourself, or you can hire a professional. This article will address the basics of building a chicken coop using the DIY route.

Benefits of having chickens

The benefits of owning backyard chickens go beyond the eggs. If you are a gardener, chickens and a produce patch are the perfect combination for many reasons. Chickens provide a natural fertilizer that helps promote foliage and fruit set. They also forage in the garden picking insects off the leaves without harming larger plants. Chickens are also the perfect way to dispose of surplus vegetables or that slightly overripe apple or banana. Chickens are also fun to watch and make wonderful pets. 

DIY chicken coop ideas

If you have decided to add chickens to your backyard, the first thing that you will need is a chicken pen. You can find plenty of chicken coop ideas online that are both practical and creative. Backyard chicken coops come in many shapes and sizes. 

One of the primary considerations is where you plan to place your chickens. They should have access to some sunshine and some shade throughout the day, but they should also have a secure place for nesting and sleeping at night. The minimum requirements are two to three square metres per chicken inside the coop and four to five square feet per chicken outside. These are the minimums, but your chickens will be happier the more room you can provide. When building a chicken coop, keep in mind that chickens will fight in a crowded area, just like us. 

Chickens are very beneficial animals to have as pets / Source: KC’s Pets At Home

Materials and tools

There are many different ways to build a chicken coop, including easy to build chicken coops that come in a kit. If you are doing it from scratch, you can decide on a wooden chicken coop, aluminium chicken coop, or use some other material. The plans and this article are for a simple chicken coop made of wood that anyone with basic carpentry skills can complete. 

  • Tape measure and carpenter’s pencil
  • Carpenter’s square 
  • Hammer and nails 
  • Cordless drill and screws 
  • Spirit level 
  • C-clamps or bar clamps
  • A retractable knife or utility knife
  • A circular saw or hand saw
  • Outdoor timber framing
  • Marine-grade plywood 
  • Treated fence panelling or other material for the outside of the coop
  • Treated H3 CCA fence rail
  • Fence mesh
  • Wire mesh panel
  • Hinges and door latches 
  • Chicken coop plans

How to build a chicken coop DIY

If this is your first time building a coop and you do not have a lot of experience with these projects, it might be best to purchase pre-made plans.

  1. Cut all the required timber: The first thing you need to do is cut all of the required lumber to the proper size. Make sure to do this carefully and follow all safety precautions. To ensure precision, measure twice and cut once.
  2. Assemble the side and back supports: You may choose to use posts set in concrete to do this. If you do not, make sure that the posts are secure and that the soil around them is compacted. You can also purchase special brackets specially designed for this purpose.
  3. Assemble the roosting box: Hens typically do not sleep in the same place as they lay. Also, roosters need their own space within the coop. The roosting box typically consists of four wood pieces that are nailed or screwed together, forming a square.
  4. Assemble the nesting box: Hens need a special nesting box to lay eggs and brood chicks. Constructing the nesting box is similar to constructing the roosting box. 
  5. Attach the outdoor area: Now it is time to attach the wire mesh to the outside of the coop and create the outdoor daytime area. When doing this, pay extra attention to ensuring that it is secure and will keep predators and rodents out. 
  6. Assemble and attach the walls: Now, you can connect the side walls recording to the plans. Make sure to close any gaps so that the coop will be protected from the weather and keep pests out.
  7. Cut and attach the flooring. Cut and attach the flooring to the floor joist assembly. One tip is to attach hardware cloth to the flooring’s underside before laying it down. This helps to prevent rodents and small predators from getting into the coop. They cannot chew through the hardwire cloth, but they will try to chew through a hardwood floor. 
  8. Create and assemble the door: Now it is time to assemble the door and attach it to the coop with hinges. 
  9. Cut and attach cladding: The main coop area’s last step is to connect the outside cladding. Once again, using a hardwire cloth on the inside will help secure the main coop area from rodents and pests.
  10. Install ramp and chicken wire: Although most chickens can manage short flights, many require a ramp to get into the coop. You should make sure that it is non-slip, not something that they will not try to peck and swallow, and it must have steps made from boards attached to the plank to prevent slipping.
  11. Create and attach the roof: The last part of the major construction is to attach the roof. Make sure to use roofing felt and either shingles or aluminium roofing materials. 
  12. Create and attach a nesting box roof: The final touches include attaching a roof to the nesting box. Hens like to feel like they are in a cozy, secured area. They should have enough room to stand up and move around, but most of the time, they will only be in this area for a short time while they are laying eggs unless they are brooding. 
The more space chickens have the better / Source: Shutterstock

How to hire a builder

As you can see, even though building a backyard chicken coop looks like a simple process, there are many steps. You must have some basic carpentry skills and knowledge to be successful. Sometimes, it is less hassle and can be cheaper to hire a professional who knows how to do it right.

Licencing and qualifications

Unless you are running electricity or plumbing to the chicken coop, most chicken coop builders only need a general construction licence or carpentry credentials to do the job. Call around and get several quotes before hiring a contractor. It would help if you also read reviews or ask for photographs of their finished projects. 

Categories
Construction

How to build a shed

Benefits of building a DIY shed

Australians have many reasons to consider building a shed on their property. It can provide practical solutions for storage and serve many useful purposes. On the outside, it seems like building DIY outdoor storage sheds would be a simple task, but it can be challenging, especially if it is your first time. This guide provides you with a basic overview of the steps. 

What type of shed should I build?

The first thing that you need to decide is what type of backyard shed you need. You can build a woodshed, garden shed, or a more sophisticated shed with electricity and specialized storage areas for tools. A shed can serve as a workshop, a separate office, or as an artist’s studio. A shed can also be the perfect playhouse for children, given that it is not also used as a storage space for tools.

You can build a shed from many different types of materials, including wood, block, or brick. If you’re looking for a space to store gardening tools, you have many choices in garden shed designs. You will need to decide what type of roofing you want and what kind of flooring, too. For roofing, you can choose options such as standing-seam metal roofing or traditional roofing shingles. You will also need to determine if you need amenities such as electricity and plumbing. Your shed can be as simple or complicated as you choose to make it. You can design it entirely from scratch, or you can choose many of the DIY shed kits that are available online. 

A shed connected to the house / Source: DT Home Improvement Services

What to do before building a shed

Whether you decide to design a shed yourself, purchase pre-made plans, or get a DIY kit, the preparation steps are the same. Here is what you need to do before you begin your DIY outdoor storage shed project.

  1. Choose an appropriate site. The first thing that you need to do is to choose a suitable location. Before you do this, it is a good idea to call your local Council to find out if there are any requirements. Many areas have ordinances that dictate how far away it can be from the main building, how far away it must be from property lines, and other requirements. Planning your site might have to centre around local conditions. 
  2. Take measurements and make a plan. The next step is to take measurements and make some drawings. It is a good idea to mark the area where the shed will go with marking paint. 
  3. Seek council approval. Local councils have different requirements for what you have to do to seek permission for shed construction. You will have to follow their procedures and get their approval before beginning the building process. Some of them might require inspections after the building is completed. You might have to follow special requirements if you live in an area that is prone to severe storms, fire, or floods. 
  4. Level the ground. Regardless of the method you choose for building your shed, the first step is to prepare the site and make sure the ground is level. Depending on the size, you may be able to do this by hand, or it may require renting excavating equipment. 

Materials and tools

Once you have approval and have your site prepared, you can now start gathering the tools and materials that you will need for the project. If you do not have all of them, it may be possible to rent them from a local tool rental store or home improvement centre. You might not need all the tools on this list, depending on the type of shed that you decide to build. Whether you are starting from cutting your own boards or you have purchased a DIY kit will also change the tools that you need or do not need. The following list is only a few suggestions for those of you who are choosing to do everything yourself.

Tools 

  • Jigsaw
  • Mitre saw
  • Hand saw
  • Circular saw
  • Drill
  • Impact driver
  • Pencil
  • T-square or carpenter’s square
  • Spirit level
  • Staple gun

Materials

Here are some of the materials that you might need, depending on what type of shed. Keep in mind that you will need different lumber for the piers, flooring, walls, and roofs. The amounts and types will depend on your building plans and local requirements.

  • Construction timber
  • LogLap cladding or other cladding 
  • OSB board 
  • Corner fence posts
  • Cement
  • Sand 
  • Waterproof sheeting 
  • Roofing felt
  • Shingles or metal for roof
  • Door hinges
  • A variety of screws
  • Windows (optional)

Contact local builders

How to build a shed from scratch

Here are the basic steps for building your shed. 

  1. Building the shed’s foundation. The foundation is the most crucial part of constructing the shed. The first step is to set the deck piers and beams. Next, you will attach the floor joists, and finally, install the flooring material. Sometimes, garden shed flooring can be dirt or other drainage material. The most important factor is that a wood floor will not be in contact with the wet or damp ground and that it allows for airflow underneath.
  2. Build & attach the wall framework. Next, you will begin framing the walls and constructing the doors and windows. It is essential to make sure that everything is square and flush when assembling the components. You can install the doors and windows at this time, too. 
  3. Build the roof rafters. Once the walls are up, you can begin constructing the roof rafters and attaching them to the walls. Most council regulations mandate the materials, spacing, and method of attachment. 
  4. Cover the wall. Now, it is time to attach the outer wall cladding. You can also do any outside trim work around the windows and doors. 
  5. Attach the roof. The last step is placing the OSB board on the roof rafters, installing the roof sheeting, and installing the shingles. 
A small shed for storage / Source: Zane Hand Painting

Once you have constructed your shed frame, it’s time to consider lining the interior walls. While you want a clean and polished look, it’s also important to stay within budget. Here are some things to consider when lining your shed interior:

How to line a shed:

  • Drywall or plasterboard is a common and simple option to use. It is a cost-effective and straightforward installation method that provides a smooth finish.
  • Plywood is another budget-friendly and straightforward option. It can be painted or stained to match your exterior or existing décor.
  • V-Joint cladding provides a finished look for the interior shed walls using thin strips of timber.
  • Tongue and groove timber panels offer a classic look with interlocking edges. They provide extra insulation to your shed and are easy to install with screw fixings.

Cheapest way to line a shed:

  • One of the most cost-effective ways to line a shed is by using oriented strand board (OSB) or particleboard.
  • Another cheap option is the plain metal or fiberboard that you may have used for the exterior shed walls.

Shed footings size:

The footings for your shed should be able to support the weight of your structure. It’s important to check local building codes before calculating your footing size. The general rule is to create footings that are about 4 inches thick and 4 inches wider than the shed base.

Sub board for shed:

A sub-board provides additional insulation between the framing and finish materials. Most commonly, 1/2-inch OSB or plywood is used as sub-board. It’s important to ensure the sub-board is installed flat and secure so that the finish material has a secure surface.

Overall, deciding how to line your shed walls depends on your preferences and budget. Ensure the footings are sized correctly and the sub-board is installed properly to make the most of your shed interior.

How to waterproof your shed

Whether you are building a garden shed or other type of structure, your DIY shed will need to be waterproof. There are several factors involved in waterproofing the shed. The first is the flooring. Some people choose to place a waterproof barrier between the floor and the ground to protect the boards underneath. 

The walls, windows, and doors typically involve caulking and sealing any holes or cracks. It is important to install the roofing according to the manufacturer’s instructions, paying attention to proper overlap, and all necessary steps. Creating a waterproof shed can be the most challenging part of the entire project, but it is also the most important. 

How to hire a builder or handyman

As you can see, there are many steps involved in building your shed. If you do not have all of the necessary skills, it can be a long and frustrating process. That is why many people choose to find a qualified professional to do it for them. Here are a few considerations for hiring someone to build your shed.

Licencing and qualifications

In many cases, one person or a team can build the shed without involving any outside contractors. If you want electricity or plumbing installed, there might be other specialty trades involved. The most important thing is to make sure that all of your professionals meet state and local requirements. It is vital that make sure they have reviews from many happy customers, too. Taking the time to plan and choose the right professional is the most important part of the process to ensure a shed that you will be happy with for many years to come.

Categories
Construction

How to build a pergola

A DIY backyard project can be very satisfying to complete. It takes skills to build a modern pergola, which may be something you feel comfortable doing yourself. With cheap pergola kits available, even a novice builder has the ability to put together the outdoor structure. Keep reading this guide for a range of pergola ideas and how you can DIY one.

What is a pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of beams that support an open or closed roof. It’s open on all sides and can be freestanding, attached to a house, or come with a deck or patio. It offers protection from the sun, enhances the look of a property, and serves as a dedicated space outside for entertaining family and friends. There are many pergola ideas to choose from.

Different pergola styles

There are three main pergola styles to consider. They are freestanding, attached, with a deck or patio. Each has a different look and list of advantages. To better understand what makes each stand apart from another, we’ve listed a few of their key features below. When wanting to learn how to build a pergola, you must be clear on the type of structure you’d prefer to have built.

An attached pergola / Source: DRP Constructions & Carpentry

Freestanding

Freestanding pergola kits are for homeowners that want a pergola separate from their house. Choosing this kit style allows you to place the structure anywhere on your property that you see fit. It’s among the most accessible types of pergolas to build because it doesn’t require additional materials to attach it to another structure. It’s a structure that can be in the garden or another area of the yard where it gets a lot of use.

Attached

A structure of this nature is similar to a freestanding pergola in appearance. It is, however, an extension of the house. It can be entered from indoors and provides a unique experience sitting outdoors. You can paint timber pergola designs to match the exterior of the home and enhance its curb appeal.

With a deck or patio

A pergola built in this style is outstanding in appearance and function. It comes with a deck or patio perfect for grilling, container gardening, and drying off after swimming in the pool. The pergola is a welcome retreat on the hottest days and remains a place to sit around a firepit during the year’s colder evenings.

Tools and materials needed to DIY a pergola

If you’re considering building a pergola, you’re going to need specific tools and materials to be successful. To help you get organised, we’ve created lists for your reference. You’ll want to make sure that you have everything on hand before beginning the project to not experience interruptions along the way.

Tools

Easy pergola builds require some tools. You’re able to find them at your local hardware store if you don’t already have them in your toolbox. A saw and drill are necessary. So are bolts and other fasteners that allow you to join the boards together.

  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Measuring tape
  • Hammar 
  • Shovel

Materials

You’re going to need the beams for the posts, sides and roof of the pergola. It is your choice what type of wood you choose. A standard pergola consists of four posts, four header boards, crossing boards, and stringer boards. It is easiest to have these pre-cut to ensure they are the right lengths that match.

You will also require galvanised screws and pre-mixed quick-dry concrete.

Contact local builders

How to build a free standing pergola

Building a free standing pergola takes time but is well worth investing time put into the task. It’s a straightforward process consisting of several steps, which are listed here for you to follow. If you’re planning on doing it yourself, you’ll want to be mentally and physically prepared to complete the project. You’ll need to devote time and money to complete the easy DIY pergola.

  1. Clear the designated area: You’ll need to have a level place to build the pergola. It should be free of rocks, tree branches, and organic debris.
  2. Dig post holes: You can rent a post hole digger. It saves you time and energy by making fast work of the job. Ensure the holes are big enough so that the posts will be secure.
  3. Set the posts in place: You’ll need to put the posts in the holes. They form the supporting structure of the pergola. After you have put the poles in place, pour in the pre-mixed quick-dry concrete.
  4. Attach the beams and rafters: The top of your structure will provide you relief from the elements. Secure the beams and rafters to each other with the screws.
  5. Secure beams and rafters to the posts: Use screws to secure the beams and rafters to the posts that have been set in place.
  6. Paint: You can paint an easy DIY pergola kit to your liking. It can match the house in colour or compliment different elements of it because there is no one best way to paint a pergola.

Once the paint has dried, you can introduce the outdoor structure to your family and friends by hosting an outdoor get-together. You can also spend time working on your garden or catching up with friends while soaking up the sun. The use you get from the pergola is well worth the money spent building it.

How to build a pergola attached to the house

If building a freestanding pergola sounds too complicated, you can build the pergola as an extension of your home. Due to the simplicity of pergola design, you’ll only need a few more materials to give it extra stability. Cheap pergola kits vary in quality. If you decide to go this route, you’ll find the following instructions helpful in attaching it to the house.

Using one side of the house as part of the structure, you’ll need fewer support beams. You’ll need first to cut the lumber. Next, drill holes before marking hanger holes. Finally, cut out the notches and secure the joints. Once these steps are complete, you can paint the wood and let it dry.

A pergola over a pool / Source: Reds Landscaping

Additional tips on building a pergola

Building a pergola can be a great addition to your outdoor living space. Here are some tips to help you out when building your own pergola:

  • When planning your pergola, keep in mind that a continuous span is ideal, as it creates a cleaner and more finished look.
  • Pergola battens are an essential part of the construction. Choose a type of wood that is sturdy, attractive, and weather-resistant to ensure long-lasting outdoor beauty.
  • When securing your pergola battens, consider using stainless steel screws or hooks, as this will give you the most durable and long-lasting solution.
  • Consider installing shade cloth or outdoor curtains for additional privacy and shade on hot summer days.

By following these building tips, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that will provide shade and style for years to come. Ensure you have the right tools and materials, and always consult with a local contractor or building code for additional support.

How to hire a builder

Hiring a qualified builder is among the most important decisions you will make if you don’t choose to DIY a pergola. There are qualifications and skills that a professional should possess before being allowed to work on your property. To help you discover what to look for in a builder, we’ve highlighted some of the most important considerations to make when searching for a capable company to assist you with your project.

Licencing and qualifications

Making sure that the builder you hire is licenced and qualified is imperative. Some states and territories require it. The requirements vary, but the professional must prove that they can build pergolas that are structurally sound. Find out how much it will cost to hire a builder in our cost guide.

Categories
Construction

How to build a deck

Adding a deck to your home is a great way to have a place for gathering and enjoying the outdoors. A deck can add value to your home and give you more living area. Many people choose to install a DIY deck in their home. This can be an excellent way to save money on labour. However, it often turns out to be a more complicated process than many anticipate in the beginning. 

What do I need to do before I start building a deck?

Some areas of Australia require local council approval for you to build your deck. Before you begin sourcing materials, there are a few things that you need to do first. 

Research deck building standards

The first step is to research deck standards in your area. They will differ, depending on where you live. It is best to research how to build a deck off a house before you begin any planning and approval work. 

Take measurements and make a plan

Next, you will need to take measurements of the deck area, home attachment, and height. Make drawings because you will need them to submit to the council for approval. 

Apply for council approval

Each locality has its own application and approval process. At a bare minimum, they will need to see your building plans, and you might need to pay a fee. Some local areas require periodic inspections at specific points along the building process. 

Some of the items that council regulates on decks include the type of material that can be used, site setbacks from property lines, and construction standards. In some cases, you might need to meet special requirements in storm-prone, flood-prone, and bushfire-prone areas. They will also regulate stairs, handrails, and height. 

A deck can extend your entertaining space / Source: Willo Green

What materials and equipment do I need to build a deck?

Once you have council approval, it is now time to begin serious planning on how to make a deck and the things that you will need to do the job. Here are the bare minimum tools and materials that you need to consider having on hand. 

Tools

  • Shovel
  • Hand or powered saw
  • Screwdriver or rachet set
  • Measuring taps
  • Hammer
  • T-square
  • Builder’s line
  • Electric drill and appropriate drill bits
  • Adjustable wrench 
  • Bubble Level 
  • Wooden stakes 
  • Metal paint
  • Glue
  • Nail Gun 
  • Fastener

Materials

  • 6×6 or 4×4 posts
  • Treated wood for floor joists
  • Treated band boards
  • Concrete mix
  • Carriage bolts for band board at the house
  • Carriage bolts for the beam at posts
  • Single joist hangers to attach joists to house band
  • Galvanized joist hanger nails
  • Galvanized ringed nails 
  • Galvanized screws
  • Deck boards 
  • Railing pickets
  • Railing boards
  • Stain and/or sealer

The amounts of these materials will differ according to the size of the project. Building a deck on the ground is much easier than building a raised deck in many ways. Here are the steps of how to build a timber deck at ground level. 

How to build a deck

  1. Set out the deck plan: This is the most important step because a mistake here can spoil the entire project. Make sure everything is level and square. Make your lines with a builder’s line and spray paint. Take your time on this step and make sure that it is right. 
  2. Install stumps and bearers: This phase creates the foundation. It must also be done correctly so that the deck will be sturdy. In some areas, you must have an inspector come out for an inspection once the holes for the stumps are dug before proceeding. When installing decking bearers and joists, Australian standards must be followed precisely. 
  3. Install joists: Next, you can begin the framing process for the deck. These are the beams that will support the decking boards. 
  4. Lay decking: This is the final part of the deck and is the part that people will see. Make sure to stagger the seams so that there are no two ends in a line. 
  5. Seal deck: The last part of the process is to stain, paint, and seal your deck so that it will last for many years to come. 

When installing deck framing, decking bearers, and joists, Australian standards must be followed for spacing and attachment methods. 

Contact local decking experts

How to build a deck on concrete

Building a deck on concrete is different from building one on the ground. Many homeowners choose to cover their concrete deck with something a little more attractive. You will need sleepers and concrete screws to attach the wood to the concrete. This will require special concrete drill bits, concrete screws, and other specialty fasteners. The posts are then attached to the sleepers, and the joists and decking are installed, just like any other deck project. 

If you have an existing concrete patio, you can easily extend it with a wood deck to create the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted. Here are some tips on how to extend a concrete patio with a wood deck:

  1. First, measure the size of your concrete patio and calculate the size of the wood deck you want to build.
  2. Use a power washer to thoroughly clean the patio surface and allow it to dry fully before beginning construction.
  3. If the patio is not level, create a level surface by using leveling compound or installing a sleepers system.
  4. Install flashing around the patio’s perimeter to protect the wooden framing from getting wet.
  5. Begin building the deck using pressure-treated wooden beams as joists. Building on top of the concrete surface may require special care and usage of special fastening techniques to secure the wooden parts to concrete.
  6. Attach decking boards onto the joist with screws or hidden fasteners.
  7. Finally, add railings, stairs, and finishing details to complete the deck.

Extending a concrete patio with a wood deck can create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living areas. Be sure to consult with a local contractor or building code for additional support and guidance on building requirements to ensure a safe and sturdy end product. With the right tools and materials, you can have the outdoor living space of your dreams in no time.

How to build deck stairs

There are many different methods and techniques for building stairs. You can purchase pre-cut stringers, or you can cut them yourself with a saw. One method uses a series of stacked, framed boxes that are set on top of one another. You can also cut two boards and place the stringers and footing between them. 

The most important tip is to make sure that there is not a significant difference between the tops and bottom steps, as this can cause a tripping hazard. When the steps are finished, you might need to install a secure handrail according to your local building codes. You will also want to consider installing a rough tread for better footing. 

A multi-level deck with stairs / Source: Mitroteam Projects

How to hire a decking expert

As you can see, building a deck frame is a complicated process. When it comes to deck construction guidelines, NSW and other territories have different requirements. If you do not have the skills, time, tools, and know local regulations, the process can be challenging. Many times, it is more cost-effective in the long run to hire a professional who can get the deck installation done quickly and professionally. This means that you can start enjoying your deck sooner and without the hassle. 

Licencing and qualifications

The person that you hire will at least have to be a licenced builder. Australia has several different classifications of builders that include commercial, restricted residential, unrestricted residential, restricted to special structures, and other classifications. In your location, you might need to hire a specific type of builder for the job. Ask to make sure that the person you hire is not only licenced but that they are familiar with your local codes and regulations. 

Before making your decision, be sure to call several different ones for a price quote. Make sure to ask for references and to see pictures of completed projects. Make sure that you understand what is included in any quotes that you receive, and don’t forget to ask if the builder offers a warranty with their work. 

Categories
Legal

Legal requirements for Owner-Builders

If you’re looking to build your own home or at least be an active participant in the construction, you will have to go through the process of obtaining an Owner-Builder permit. This also means that you’ll have to follow a ton of different legal requirements, many of which change depending on what state and territory you live in. Sound complicated? Don’t worry, we’re here to figure it out for you with this guide to owner-builder legal requirements.

What do you need to know about Owner-Builder legal requirements?

Why is this so important? Well, first, you’ll have to consider what could happen if there weren’t any legal responsibilities for the construction. The possibilities are scary. If you employ an unskilled builder, they could build a poorly-made house on a lousy foundation that could weaken or collapse over time. An unscrupulous owner-builder could employ subcontractors or labourers in a dangerous working environment, potentially causing a lot of physical harm. So, you’ll have to work with legal requirements that ensure that the environment is safe, the owner-builder practices safe building practices and that the owner-builder is properly insured.

Requirements before and during construction 

So, what are the legal requirements before and during construction? First, you’ll have to have detailed plans drawn up by a professional. Those plans then need to be submitted, along with any required governmental forms (like a Bushfire Assessment, a Statement of Environmental Effects or a Building Sustainability Index) to make for a Development Application, or a DA. Make sure you have everything you need before you submit the DA – any missing document can make for a legal nightmare. Once that is approved, you’ll have to apply for an owner-builder permit. You’ll need to be 18 or older and the owner of the property, and you’ll have to confirm that you’ll be living in that home. There will be a fee for the application, and you might have to provide legal proof that you actually can work on the property or take an owner-builder course. Following that, you’ll need a Development Consent or Complying Development Certificate, and you’ll have to schedule appointments with inspectors to check out the building. Don’t forget, all of the legal responsibility during construction is on you. You have to make sure you use only licensed tradespersons and get all the right contracts drawn up, and you’ll have to have all of the right insurances.

Land surveying must be done before construction begins / Source: Statiker

Requirements after construction

Another thing to consider – there are plenty of legal requirements you’ll have to deal with after construction is done. You may have to take out Statutory insurance or a Statutory Warranty, and you’ll need to get council approval before you actually move in.

Does your project need council approval?

You may think that a project is so minute that it doesn’t need council approval; however, most projects do require you to gain approval. Some projects that need approval that you may not be aware of are as follows:

  • If you plan to build decking that stands 60cm or more above the ground, you should seek approval.
  • As a significant building structure, a covered patio may need council approval.
  • A carport might need approval if the floor area is greater than 20 square meters. This is the case if you live in the suburbs or in an urban area.
  • If you plan to build a shed and use it as a house, you need to seek approval first.
  • You may be curious what deems it necessary for a project to require council approval. This is based on various factors such as:
  • Does the structure change the appearance of your home?
  • Will the structure possibly cause damage to the environment or cause soil erosion?
  • How safe is the structure?
  • How hygienic is the building?
  • How does my project affect neighbouring properties?

Contact local builders

These reasons are the main ones that determine depict whether building regulations are established. A council determines the regulations by factoring in what makes for safe construction. This means that even if the deck you plan to build is only 60cm in height, it may still present itself as a threat if it’s not constructed properly or if there is a lack of sturdy fencing around it.

There are instances where the prospective building project may be excused from the process of filling out a development application, also called a DA application. On the contrary, there are other instances where you must fill out an application for a home extension or a new home, but you may be eligible for the “fast track” building application approval. Since inquiring with the council doesn’t cost you, don’t hesitate to ask about council approval for your project. The fee for getting council approval for your building project is typically reasonable and directly relates to the scale of the project and also the cost of it. To avoid problems, you should always consult with your local council prior to beginning a project.