You have got a property to boast of, so soon enough, you are bound to have an inner urge to add to its scope; either externally or upwards. Also, there may be minor adjustments in the offing, either for beautification or for practical purposes (lawn is an example of the former, air conditioner for the latter). Here is what you need to do before home renovation and how to deal with the relevant councils.
Don’t bother your neighbors
You should not put your neighbour to discomfort while adding to your luxuries (at least try to mitigate it as much as possible). Firstly, you cannot, repeat cannot, extend your construction work into their space. The eaves, the awnings, even a projecting window has limitations and cannot extend beyond that. If you are planning minor extension which may benefit both, ask for their permission and do work mutually.
How to approach local councils?
Local council permission is a must, no matter what type of construction or renovation you are looking for (of course this does not include addition of a wall shelf in your study, but pretty much everything else). Antennas, carports, driveways, retaining walls, air conditioners; they all fall under different layers of construction and requires different kinds of permission.
Regulations for home renovation
Different sets of regulations apply in different states of Australia. Those which fall under Bushfire threat, like New South Wales, have stringent regulations, while relatively safe states have relatively lenient regulations. Anyhow, you have to get prior permission from the authorities and get in touch with a Planning Officer, accredited by the local council to uphold planning and phasing.
Get approval beforehand
It is best to solve the Logistics equation and all approval formalities beforehand or you may be forced to tear down the construction and begin afresh (irritating and expensive). This is especially when you consider adding another level or extending your house with a porch or an outdoor living area (pools and all). The Adviser will suggest you which materials to use during home renovation and what pressure your base floor can digest.
Some important pointers
- Follow rules relating to noise restraints. Construction is not allowed beyond 6 pm on weekdays and 1 pm on weekends.
- Take neighbour’s permission before undergoing construction or renovation which involves use of heavy machinery.
- Try and lessen noise pollution from your end by utilizing best machinery, reputed building contractor and sound mitigating devices.
- Don’t try smart tactics by getting approval for a minor adjustment and continuing with major home extension. You will have problems the day you are caught.
How did you tackle the loopholes in the building contract while adding a second storey?
Related Posts
