Building Guides
How long does it take to build a house in Melbourne?
The time before the slab, the five stages on site, and what slows a build down.
Building a house in Melbourne takes two lots of time: the weeks or months of design, quotes, permits and approvals before work starts, then the build itself through the five stages. Our single-storey home in Clyde North was posted with a build time of three months.
What happens before building starts?
- Design and quote, then the contract.
- The soil test and survey, then the engineering for the slab.
- On an estate lot, the developer’s design approval; on any lot, waiting for the title.
- The building permit, plus a planning permit if your block needs one.
How long does the build itself take?
It runs through base, frame, lock-up, fixing and completion. Your contract sets out when the work starts and when it should be finished, so you know the build time before you sign. Ask us for the timeframe for your design and block.
What can slow a build down?
- Wet weather, especially before the slab and the roof are on.
- Changes to the design once building has started (variations).
- Delays with titles, permits or estate approvals.
- Extra site works the soil test turns up, or materials in short supply.
Does a knockdown rebuild take longer?
Add the demolition: disconnecting services, any asbestos removal, the permits and the clean-up come first. See what a knockdown rebuild involves.
How can you keep a build on time?
- Settle the design and the finishes before you sign, so nothing changes once building starts.
- Have your finance approved and ready for each stage payment.
- Get the soil test and survey done early, so the slab design and site costs are known up front.
- Pick a builder who tells you the timeframe in writing: see what to check before you sign.
Got a question about building with us?
See answers to the questions we hear most.