While some builders are willing to tackle the challenge and conditions of sloping block designs, others may be far less willing. This is because working with the conditions of sloping block is generally viewed as a more difficult task than your average build.
There are a variety of factors affecting the costs of building on a sloping block as opposed to building on a flat block:
Consider the design troubles that present problems for engineers. You may need to call in several experts, including a structural engineer, as well people to conduct a land survey.
Access to the site may sometimes present a trouble, meaning costs may include transportation of materials to the area. Foundation work on sloping blocks will require extra work to ensure there’s a level surface for building on.
A bigger concern is landscaping. Sloping blocks present many landscaping problems – meaning retaining walls may need to be put up. There are ways around all these, but generally if you are wanting your home to be built using quality materials and processes, then you will go to these lengths.
Costs
The higher cost of building your home on a sloping back may be a turn off in itself. This comes as a major disadvantage – there are, however, a number of advantages which make building on a slope are sought after.
The foremost reason is the quality of design that it may bring. The builders will simply put more time and thought into the challenge of building on a sloping block. Another popular reason is the view and positioning a home on a sloped block would provide homeowners with.
Consider all the work needs to go into a sloping block. An effort to take on such a challenge, you will need to find a reputable builder who can cater to your property’s needs. As mentioned, while it can be expensive, you can make it cost-efficient by investigating these top three sloping block house designs and choosing which is best for you:
Basic stepped design
This plan is made up of two levels – one will be placed on the lower part of the slope, while the other is placed on the higher level. This is ideal for homeowners with a building platform that has a fall of maximum of 2 metres.
Multi-stepped design
A step further than the aforementioned basic stepped design, the multi-stepped design offers more than two levels that are created a suit a fall that measures from 2 to 2.5 metres.
Split-level design
A split-level design plan is perhaps the most popular block design. Consisting of two levels, it can have a single storey entrance, with a double-storey level located toward its rear, or the other way around. These types of designs are suggested for a sloping site that has a fall of over 3 metres.
What Comes Next?
Once you have your house plans at the ready, they need to be submitted to the council for various approvals. Depending on your type of property, a Development Application and/or Construction Certificate may be required here.
This approval process will alter from council to council, and could potentially take up to 100 days. So the best means of ensuring your application is processed fast is to make sure you have all the correct information in your submission.
Contact Us
If you are considering building on a sloping block, make sure you speak with one of our expert phone consultants. With 40+ years experience in home building, property development, renovation and more, they will be able to provide you with the help you need.
Make the most of the opportunity for the extra space, consider other split level designs.
Bear in mind that not all builders will provide split level or sloping block designs. Here at iBuildNew we can find you the right builder for the job, and so much more. Call us on 1800 184 284 or book a call online.
Let us do the legwork for you.
- We’ll ask the right questions to better understand your needs
- We’ll create a recommended shortlist ideally matched to you
- We’ll answer specific questions or concerns related to home building, land purchasing or financing
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