Knockdown-rebuild in Canberra Guide - 8 Steps to a successful build
1. Know the Benefits of Knockdown Rebuild
Stay in the location you love
Avoid stamp duty and moving costs
Custom design your forever home
Increase property value with a new build
If you love your block but not your house, a knockdown rebuild is often more cost-effective than renovating.
Kolak Living - Custom homes made easy
2. Understand Your Block
Before you start designing:
Check zoning and overlays through ACTmapi
Know if you have significant or protected trees
Request a site survey to identify easements and boundaries
Kolak Living handles all the technical checks and can advise on any constraints early in the process.
3. Plan Your Timeline
A knockdown rebuild isn’t an overnight process.
On average:
Demolition approval: 4-6 weeks
Building approval: 8 weeks
Construction: 6–9 months (longer for a more complicated build, we will let you know once your plans are finalised)
We’ll help you plan ahead and keep you informed at every stage, so there are no surprises.
4. Set a Realistic Budget
Your budget should cover:
Demolition
Site costs (retaining walls, excavation, slab)
Design & approvals
Construction
Landscaping (optional)
Temporary accommodation
Tip: Kolak Living offers transparent, fixed-price contracts to keep your finances under control
5. Design for Your Lifestyle
Think long-term:
How will your family grow over the next 5–10 years?
Do you want a home office, guest space, or energy-efficient features?
Are there design guidelines in your suburb or estate?
What is the best way to enjoy retirement in your home comfortably?
Our design team can tailor layouts to match your lifestyle and block orientation for light, views, and privacy.
6. Let Us Handle the Red Tape
From demolition approval to building certification, Kolak Living handles all the paperwork.
We liaise with ACTPLA, utility providers, certifiers, and estate managers, so you don’t have to.
7. Stay Involved (But Not Overwhelmed)
We encourage regular site visits and check-ins, but we also manage the details so you can focus on the exciting parts—like choosing finishes, colours, and fixtures.
8. Ask About Inclusions
Not all builders include the same things.
At Kolak Living, we provide:
A clear inclusion list
Premium finishes
Energy-efficient solutions
Smart home integration (optional)
“Green Smart” Building principles
Tip: Always compare inclusions before comparing prices.
Ready to Start?
Book a free consultation with Kolak Living.
We’ll assess your site, explain the process in clear terms, and help you turn your block into your dream home.
ABOUT
At Kolak Living, we specialise in building custom homes that are tailored to your unique vision. Based in Canberra, we collaborate closely with leading architects and interior designers to create modern, architectural homes that match your lifestyle and preferences.
