Building on a sloping block. Sourcing the perfect block of land to build your brand new home can be challenging. Will the frontage allow for the home you want? Is the property long enough to have an alfresco and/or backyard? Is the block in the right location and within budget? These are just some of the many considerations to figure out.
What should you do if the block of your dreams is on a slope? In this market insight, we highlight and discuss the types of sloping blocks, how this can impact your build, the cost and the unique benefits.
Types of Sloping Blocks
There are many types of sloping blocks. The greatest influence to a build is to identify which way the slope goes. The most common types are:
- Upward sloping block – This is where the slope dips at its lowest near the frontage of the block, while the highest point will be at the back of the site.
- Downward sloping block – This is where the slope dips at its lowest near the back end of the block, while the highest point will be at the frontage of the site.
- Cross fall – This where the slope is directed across the block or horizontally if you are looking at it from the street frontage.
- Upward/downward sloping with a cross fall – This is a combination of the above and the most difficult site to build on.
What impacts building on sloping blocks?
Overall, building on a sloping block can be difficult. There are a number of factors to consider such as the fact the build takes much longer, construction costs are higher and souring a qualified builders to successfully complete the works.
- Accessibility to the block of land – In a new land estate, the builder will likely have more accessibility. In a developed suburb, it can be very difficult to construct on a sloping block. The harder the access to the block of land, the greater the building delay to complete the home.
- The type of land – In every build, the soil type and terrain will affect construction. It is important to analyse the block of land to identify the ground conditions for foliage, rock or sand. In each situation, a change to the building strategy or methods will need to be implemented.
- The depth and degree of the slope’s direction – The greater the slope, the more difficult it is to build. There are many builders who will only construction a home to a certain slope degree or depth.
What sort of costs are expected when building on a sloping block?
When building on a sloping block, its expected that the cost to construct a house will be considerably more expensive. To develop on a sloping block, it takes a greater level of thinking, higher level of engineering and often more costly materials to ensure a safe and aesthetically pleasing structure.
If the slope is less than 2 metre, you may find the additional costs to be marginally. As that slope doubles, triples or quadruples, the cost can get considerably expensive. It simple terms, the bigger the slope, the bigger the cost.
Before purchasing a sloping block, it would be very wise to discuss this with your nominated builder before committing to buying it. In some situations, a sloping block is cheaper to a flat block on the basis that the cost to build is far more expensive.
What are the benefits of a sloping block?
Once you can overcome the challenges and costs to build, there are a few very nice benefits a sloping block can offer you. The home will be a custom designed property, so it will most likely have its own individuality.
Here are two of the most common benefits:
- The views – The most notable reason why people want a sloping block, is for the view! Depending on the location, you may have a wonderful view of the country side, the beach or the city skyline at night. What ever dreams you are chasing, a sloping block can have you startled each and every day from your bedroom, living room are outdoor decking.
- The increased natural light – With nice large windows facing that wonderful view, you’ll be able to appreciate more natural lighting, more fresh air and better room temperatures throughout the year. This will ultimately help your home be more environmentally sustainable.
What to do next?
Whenever purchasing a home as an investment or to occupy, it is always more advantageous to have someone work with you in sourcing the block and helping you identify the right builder. At Crest Property Investments, we specialise in sourcing brand new and off the plan properties for buyers. If you’d like assistance with your next purchase, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
If you’d like to learn more about us, please feel free to look us up on our website. Our YouTube channel and Market Insights also provide a wealth of information to assist you with many areas relating to property.
While we have taken care to ensure the information above is true and correct at the time of publication, changes in circumstances and legislation after the displayed date may impact the accuracy of this article. If you want to learn more, please contact us. We welcome the opportunity to assist you.
June 2023
