HOME OWNER BUILDER

                                                       AUSTRALIA, VICTORIA

This website is a day by day account of building your own home as an owner builder.

Being an owner builder is possible for anyone who has the time for planning and trade skills required to build a modern house. However there are obligations.

                   STARTING OUR BUILDING PROJECT

I have some experience in building. This current project is the fourth domestic dwelling I have extended or constructed from the start.

I don’t believe in paying for anything I can do myself. As you follow the development of this building project you will find the only things I will not be able to do are those areas which are restricted by regulations. As much as it irks me these regulations require me to use a plumber and an electrician.

The proposed dwelling will be set on 6753 square metres (1.67 acres) of land which we have owned for the past 30 years. The property was recently subdivided from our original property of 11986 square metres (3 acres). The land has a considerable slope. The fall over the area of the house is 1.7 metres.

This building project started in November 2009 by researching relevant building codes, house designs and among other things the requirements for a five star energy rating.

Links are provided to the various websites I used.

I chose to design and draw my own plans. I used Adobe Illustrator CS3 to draw the plans; another good program is Auto Desk – Auto Sketch 8. It is a good idea to have a check list from your building surveyor to ensure all the necessary drawings and design requirements have been met. The Building Surveyor is the one who will ultimately provide you with your building permit.


                                               Sample application forms are included.
                         These forms need to be completed  to obtain your building permit.

                                   Your Building Surveyor may have similar forms to fill in.