Moving into a newly built acreage home can be an exciting prospect. Compared to a regular urban house, it offers much more space, both internally and externally, a more tranquil life and the opportunity to totally change your lifestyle.
An acreage home, however, has a number of challenges that you may need to overcome during the preparation and construction phases. If you overcome them successfully, this will ensure a much smoother transition into your new home and a life that subsequently meets your expectations.
Failing to plan and prepare, on the other hand, will almost certainly result in problems, delays to progress and a less than successful outcome.
Thorough Site Analysis & Geotechnical Investigations (Understanding Your Geelong Block)
Once you have identified a likely site, the first vital step is to have it thoroughly assessed. This includes:
Evaluating the shape and features of the land, including its slopes, contours and natural obstacles.
Looking at vegetation that may need to be cleared.
Understanding the type of soil, which will determine the extent of preparation needed and the required foundations.
Determining the way water moves and accumulates to decide on the drainage needed.
Identifying if the land is in a bushfire zone and the precautions that will be necessary.
Considering the suitability of access for equipment, including overhead clearances and the width of the roadway.
Establishing the proximity to neighbouring properties.
The findings will determine how easy or difficult the excavation and construction processes will be. This will impact the equipment and materials needed, likely timelines and costs, and even the viability of the whole project.
Finding problems early will be much better than learning of them further down the line when they will cause delays and add to the cost.
Essential Services & Infrastructure Establishment (Connecting to Geelong’s Amenities)
Acreage properties are often in rural areas and do not have the same level of infrastructure as urban areas. As a result, the services that we depend on may not be readily available, so that either connection may be more costly or alternative sources will need to be obtained.
If the home is not on the main power network, you may have to resort to solar power with a battery system or use a generator to produce electricity. Water tanks may have to be installed if town water is not available. Alternative means may also be required for telephone and internet connections.
Although a lack of infrastructure can appear to be a major challenge, most problems can be overcome. It also gives you the opportunity to have a much more self-sufficient and sustainable life.
When utility services are available, care must be taken not to damage pipes and cables during excavations and construction. It is important, therefore, that a plan of the existing infrastructure is obtained and an operator is engaged who understands safe digging procedures.
Easy access to the property is required, both for construction equipment and for daily life when you move in. If there is no existing access road, investigate the practicality and cost of installing one. Also, determine the proximity to shops, schools and other facilities that you need to live reasonably well.
Earthworks, Levelling & Drainage Management
Heavy rainfall can delay any construction project, with heavy machinery struggling to move through mud. It is essential, therefore, that the site drainage is sorted out quickly so water does not accumulate, especially in areas of clay soil that do not drain well.
Poor drainage is a common cause of construction problems and also needs to be remedied for ease of daily living since inadequate drainage can undermine buildings and cause long-term maintenance issues.
Access for heavy equipment and material deliveries is necessary to avoid delays. Heavy trucks and excavators need a clear and stable approach to be able to operate safely and efficiently, so reinforcement and stabilisation of access roads may be needed.
Excavation involves much more than simply moving earth around. The ground has to be properly graded and compacted to enable solid and stable foundations for the property to be established. So it is important that all excavations and earthworks are undertaken by a professional organisation that understands local conditions and uses the correct equipment. This will ensure unexpected obstacles are overcome and the project is not delayed.
Navigating Local Geelong Council Regulations & Overlays
Understanding local building regulations and restrictions is essential if a project is to succeed. Factors to be aware of include:
Overlay requirements that may be imposed in certain zones due to heritage considerations, being prone to flooding or the presence of protected vegetation; these may restrict the type and size of property, and permits may be needed
Bushfire attack level (BAL) management plans in fire risk areas require the use of fire-resistant materials, landscaping solutions and the reduction of fire hazards
Building envelope and setback requirements that affect the positioning of a building in relation to the overall block
Land management plans that cover vegetation and stormwater runoff.
Various permits and permissions may be required before any work starts, and these may take some time to obtain, so the application needs to be made early. Although these will be additional costs, including possible consultancy fees, it is important that all regulations and restrictions are complied with; otherwise, financial penalties may be incurred and the project delayed or even stopped.
The need for compliance emphasises the importance of using a local builder who is familiar with what is needed and has a track record of successful completions. At Enso Homes, we have constructed many acreage and other properties in line with client requirements. We specialise in constructing bespoke houses that deliver exactly what is wanted, and we always aim for complete satisfaction. Check out our range of properties and contact us to find out how we can help you.
