AUSMAR blog

Knock Down Rebuild Checklist | 5 Things to Do Before You Start

Written by admin | June 30, 2026

A knock down rebuild is an exciting opportunity to create a home that suits your lifestyle without leaving the location you love.

Like any successful building project, preparation is key. Taking the time to understand your block, organise the right documentation and plan for demolition and construction can help make the process much smoother.

Here is our five-step knock down rebuild checklist to help you get started.

1. Understand Your Block and Site Access

Before choosing a home design, it is important to understand what your land can accommodate.

A professional site assessment considers factors such as:

  • Planning requirements
  • Setbacks
  • Block dimensions
  • Slope and orientation
  • Existing services
  • Easements
  • Vehicle and construction access

These details can influence where your new home is positioned, which designs may suit the block and whether additional site works could be required.

Site access also needs to be considered early. Depending on your location, street access and the potential impact on surrounding properties, traffic management may be required during demolition or construction.

Your builder will also need to consider parking for trades, construction vehicles and larger deliveries.

Planning a knock down rebuild? Download the AUSMAR Knock Down Rebuild Guide for more information about preparing your block, planning your project and understanding the rebuilding journey.

 

2. Check Council and Planning Requirements

Every property is different, and local planning requirements can influence what is possible on your block.

Depending on your location, your property may be affected by:

  • Zoning requirements
  • Flood or bushfire overlays
  • Heritage considerations
  • Building height restrictions
  • Setback requirements
  • Other planning controls

These requirements should be reviewed before you commit to a home design.

Working with an experienced knock down rebuild builder means potential planning requirements can be identified early, helping reduce the risk of unexpected changes or delays later in the process.

3. Organise a Property Identification Survey

An up-to-date property identification survey confirms your property boundaries and identifies important features that may affect the placement of your new home.

This may include:

  • Easements
  • Existing structures
  • Services
  • Boundary locations
  • Encroachments
  • Other site constraints

Even if your property has been surveyed previously, boundary markers may no longer be clearly identifiable and the conditions on your property may have changed.

A current survey provides your builder and design team with more accurate information when assessing the block and positioning your new home.

At AUSMAR, we can help organise an up-to-date property identification survey as part of the early planning process.

4. Budget for Demolition and Temporary Accommodation

Before construction can begin, the existing home will need to be safely demolished by a licensed and insured demolition contractor.

It is important to obtain detailed quotes and confirm exactly what is included. Ask whether the demolition quote covers:

  • Demolition of the existing home and structures
  • Site preparation
  • Rubbish and material removal
  • Plumbing and electrical disconnections
  • Removal of driveways, sheds or other structures
  • Asbestos inspections and removal
  • Site clearing after demolition

Older homes may contain asbestos or other hazardous materials. These materials must be handled and disposed of by an appropriately licensed contractor and may result in additional demolition costs.

Where asbestos is present, the contractor should provide the appropriate clearance documentation once the work is complete.

You will also need to arrange somewhere to live during demolition and construction. This may involve renting, staying with family or moving into another property temporarily.

Planning your accommodation and allowing for these costs early can make the transition much easier.

Not sure what needs to happen before demolition begins? Our Knock Down Rebuild Guide explains the key steps to consider before starting your project.

5. Choose the Right Knock Down Rebuild Builder

A knock down rebuild involves much more than simply constructing a new home.

Your builder may need to coordinate or assist with:

  • Initial site assessments
  • Property surveys
  • Planning requirements
  • Home design selection
  • Site access considerations
  • Demolition preparation
  • Building approvals
  • Construction
  • Handover

Choosing a builder with experience in knock down rebuild projects can help you understand what is involved and make informed decisions throughout the process.

At AUSMAR, we guide homeowners from their initial consultation and site assessment through to construction and handover.

We build across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Gympie, helping homeowners create a new home in the location they already know and love.

Ready to Start Planning?

Every successful knock down rebuild begins with understanding your land and creating a plan that suits your property, lifestyle and budget.

The AUSMAR Knock Down Rebuild Guide provides practical information to help you understand the process, prepare your property and plan your next steps.

Thinking about rebuilding on your existing block?

Get in touch with the AUSMAR team to discuss your property and arrange an initial site assessment.