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🏠 Checklist 9 min read

Home Extension Checklist: Planning Your Australian Home Extension

Adding a home extension is a major investment that can transform how you live. From hiring an architect to getting council approval and managing the build.

What Type of Extension?

  • 1 Ground floor rear extension: most common
  • 2 First floor addition
  • 3 Granny flat: rental income potential
  • 4 Garage conversion: more affordable

How Much Does an Extension Cost?

Expect $2,500–$4,000+ per square metre for a quality extension. A 40m² rear extension commonly costs $100,000–$160,000.

Step 1: Hire a Designer

Engage an architect or building designer. Designer fees are typically 5–15% of construction cost.

Pro tip: Have a preliminary meeting with your council before spending on full drawings.

Step 2: Development Approval

  • 1 DA (Development Application): submitted to council
  • 2 CDC (Complying Development Certificate): faster via private certifier
  • 3 Allow 6–16 weeks for DA; 10–20 business days for CDC

Ready to get started?

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