Revitalise Your Space: The Art of Knocking Down and Rebuilding
The knockdown and rebuild approach to home building is gaining traction due to trends in contemporary property sizes and mid-century homes becoming incompatible with our modern lifestyles.
A knockdown and rebuild project involves many more factors than building a new dwelling on a clear block.
However, with careful planning, effective project management, and a strong partnership with an experienced, reliable builder, homeowners can feel confident that their vision will be realised and their homes will be built to the highest standards.
This article guides you through the basic processes of a knockdown and rebuild, providing an overview of what to expect. You will also discover why more people are partnering with our Jem Homes builders for home knockdown and rebuild Melbourne-wide.
What is a knockdown and rebuild home renovation?
The knockdown and rebuild home renovation method involves partial or complete demolition of an existing property and construction of a new one. The main difference between a new build and a knockdown and rebuild is the project's demolition and material disposal aspect.
Why do people choose knockdown rebuilds?
Knockdown rebuild projects are a comprehensive solution for homeowners who desire a new dwelling without leaving their local community.
The reasons people may choose to demolish their existing home include:
Shortcomings in the existing structure
Outdated design elements
Inadequate space
Structural issues
Home renovation designs can often be constrained by limitations imposed by the existing structure and foundations. A knockdown and rebuild project grants homeowners the freedom to tailor their property to their current lifestyle and future family plans.
This is also a popular method of building for property owners who wish to downsize their existing property and capitalise on their existing assets via subdivision. Subdivided land can then be sold or used to create another investment property.
A guide to the knockdown and rebuild process
The knockdown and rebuild project is an old concept, which means we have a lot of data from decades of success and trial and error to draw on when undertaking a project of such magnitude.
This type of project can be challenging, for unlike a new build, most people will have to move out of their existing homes and find temporary accommodation while the build is being completed.
The more informed and prepared you are regarding the standard knockdown rebuild process, the more streamlined your build will be, and the sooner you can move into your new dream home.
The knockdown and rebuild process
Every building project has nuances due to differences in property types, local laws and regulations, and processes unique to local governments and councils. However, breaking down the knockdown and rebuild process into typical stages may resemble the steps below.
Site consultation and assessment
Once you have decided on a contractor or started interviewing with builders, the builder's assessment team will need to survey the current property and formulate a project plan to draft an initial quote.
By being well-prepared with information and having a clear but flexible idea of what you want from your build, you can provide the builder with more accurate information, helping them deliver more accurate preliminary concepts and quotes.
Design and planning
The initial consultations and quotes are finished; it is time to get creative.
This is where you will decide on the floor plan and type of rebuild you will opt for, like:
Partial rebuild
Traditional build
Prefabricated Off-site manufactured home
Modular construction
The design and planning phase involves a lot of consultation and decision-making, but it is also where you will start to see drawings and plans for your future home and get an idea of the project's time frame and final costs.
Finance approval
Some people may have pre-approval and fall well within the project boundaries. However, some property owners may need to gain design and planning information before seeking bank loan approvals. Once sorted, it is time to finalise plans and commit to the project with your builder.
Contract approval and signing
Once the finance is authorised, all parties will review all aspects of the final contracts and sign off so that full design and planning can be submitted.
Interiors and finishes
Interiors, finishings, and furnishings are often the last aspect of the design and planning phase. Depending on your unique financial situation, they may be addressed before or after the financial approval stage.
You will finalise colour schemes, fittings, finishings and other aesthetic and functional components here.
Council and local government approvals
Now that most of your knockdown and rebuild project's plan is finalised, you and the builder can get any final approvals required from the local government and council.
The more well-planned and documented the project is, the more streamlined this process will be.
Demolition and waste removal
Now that all approvals, plans, and contracts have been finalised, you can say goodbye to your old dwelling. The builder's demolition team will systematically tear down your old home and dispose of the debris so the builder can prepare the foundations for your new abode.
Final plans and approvals
While the demolition team is hard at work, you will be in the final stage to make any changes or alterations before construction begins.
Maintaining a good report and clear, open communication with your builder can ensure that all aspects of your build are considered and all parties are confident in actioning the final plans.
Construction and handover
The time has come, and you will see your vision become a reality as construction begins. Before you know it, you will sign off any final documents and receive your new home's keys.
Jem Homes: Experts in knockdown and rebuild Melbourne-wide
Our Jem Homes building team has developed a reputation as an expert in knockdown and rebuild projects across Melbourne's Western suburbs. We work closely with our clients to develop comprehensive portfolios that provide us with everything we need to deliver a dream home.
If you are happy with your Melbourne location but want to build a new home, call us today at 0423 044 467 to book a consultation. Alternatively, you can contact us via our online contact porthole, and we will contact you within 24 hours or at a preferred time.