Units and Townhouses

Development of units and townhouses is a very profitable business usually done by builders and developers.

These types of developments require a development application to a local council and can be done by anyone providing that employ the right professionals.

A town planner should be the first point of call prior to making any other enquiries. A town planner will check the zoning of the property and assess how many units or townhouses can be located on a site. A town planner will also advise of any issues that might arise prior to making a development application.

A second point of call should be an architect or a building designer. Architectural designs are required as part of a development application so that the council can assess how the development impacts the adjoining properties.

A development application to council can take between 2 months to 8 months to receive a decision and an architect and town planner will work closely together to answer any design or planning questions from council.

If the council approves the development application, the applicant (you) are required to pay contributions to the council. Contributions are usually calculated per new unit so if you are building six units you will need to pay contributions for six units.

Council contributions can consist of contributions for roads, water supply, sewerage, parks and transport. Each council has different contributions and different fees, so make sure to check with your local council.

The third point of call should be your builder who will begin the building process.

Please note that this is a simplified article about the development process. This article should only be used as general guide and not as advice.