Should I extend or knockdown and rebuild?

In December 2008 the new NSW building code was released. There are a lot of changes afoot with complying development and some projects we can commence without formal council development approval.

Most councils have very tight regulations in place for planning and development. Most extensions can be tailored to meet these regulations. Knockdown-rebuild applications, on the other hand, must meet all of the council's current requirements, including onsite water detention, site ratios, boundary issues, and road setbacks. In many cases, council regulations will mean that a new house will be smaller than the existing one.

Although advertised as the simpler option than extending, rebuilding in certain parts of Sydney isn't as straightforward as it's made out to be. Extensions leave the smallest 'carbon' footprint, it's not all about size anymore. In some projects we have been able to reuse existing materials efficiently. However, if the site is suitable, Roshills Constructions can undertake a knockdown-rebuild project. For more details please contact John.

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Will an extension cost more than a knockdown-rebuild?

Extensions will work out cheaper in the long run because you will save on renting a place to live in while the construction is underway, onsite water detention costs, and council fees.

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How much will it cost?

Each project is unique and will be affected by type of finish, size of addition, quality of inclusions (bathroom fixtures, wall and floor tiles, floor coverings, kitchen appliances, light fittings, paint schemes, etc). As a rough guide, you should budget between $80–200k for a ground-floor addition and between $100–350k for a first-floor addition.

In cases where a designer has drawn up a plan without consulting a builder, their estimated prices can vary dramatically. Our integrated approach - being in contact from planning through to construction - ensures that you won't be unpleasantly surprised halfway through the project.

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How long will it take?

We endeavour to ensure that the contract period is a realistic timeframe in which we can complete the project without compromising on quality.

Typically, a ground-floor addition will take between four to six months and a first-floor addition will take between six to nine months.

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Will I be able to live in my home during the construction?

A good question to ask if you've never extended before!

In most cases, yes, you will be able to stay on and go about your routine. On a first-floor addition with no ground-floor alterations, there will be little or no impact on your current living spaces. On a ground-floor addition, there will be some interruption to your regular living space but we always aim to minimise this.

Our tradesmen will also clean up the site at the end of each day. We understand that this is your home, not just another building site.

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How do I pay?

We work to a system of progress payments - usually four to six payments.

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Does your process allow me to organise some services or buy the materials myself?

We endeavour to minimise costs wherever feasible. We are open to you buying your own wall and floor tiles, and fixtures. You are also welcome to remove rubbish yourself or do your own painting.

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How do I get started?

Have a look at our process first. Then contact us!

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