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The knock down rebuild process

Preparing for a knock down rebuild project

Getting started on a knock down rebuild might feel a little overwhelming – but you’re not alone. Our experienced team has guided thousands of homeowners through the process, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Transparency and care are at the heart of our process, and we're always ready to answer your questions and help you navigate any challenges.

We’ve created this essential guide to the knockdown rebuild process to step you through the key stages you can expect – from demolishing your existing home to building a new home – and to show you how we make the process smoother and more rewarding.

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One image should carry the caption: Henley has guided thousands of homeowners through the knock down rebuild process

Before we begin, it’s important to fully understand your block of land, and identify any factors that could impact construction. Addressing these early helps avoid surprises and keeps the process running smoothly. 

Common considerations include trees, fences, easements, slope, and site access, as well as sewer and stormwater lines, powerlines, and parking. Council zoning, overlays, and environmental restrictions may also apply. Pinpointing these details early ensures smoother approvals and fewer unexpected costs. 

Our Knockdown Rebuild Guide explains how to gather this information and what actions you’ll need to take before we move ahead. 

Knock down rebuild checklist

Doing your research at the early stage of a knock down and rebuild can help make the whole process run more smoothly, reduce site costs and avoid unnecessary delays.

Property and site checklist

  • Speak with your local council and water authority: Let them know you're planning a knockdown rebuild and request relevant information about your land and local planning rules.
  • Check zoning laws and planning regulations: Understand zoning regulations, overlays, building restrictions or development controls that apply to your block.
  • Locate sewer and stormwater connections: Identify where these services are positioned, and when they were installed on your existing property.
  • Look for hidden underground items: Older properties may have septic tanks, old wells, pipes or other buried infrastructure that could impact construction.
  • Confirm any easements, heritage protections or environmental overlays: Easements, heritage listing requirements and environmental restrictions may affect where you can build.
  • Investigate power line requirements: If overhead power lines are present, you may need to arrange for underground power as part of your rebuild.

"Every house, block and council area are different," says Henley's Sarina Austin. "One of the biggest risks associated with a knock down rebuild is council approvals not being guaranteed. For this reason we recommend waiting for all Council approvals prior to completing the demolition."

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Permit checklist

For most knockdown rebuilds, multiple permits are required before work can begin. Check which of the following apply to your project.

Demolition permit: Required for the safe removal of your current home, usually organised by your demolition contractor.

Planning permit (if applicable): Needed if the rebuild changes land use, increases the home’s footprint, or if your site is in a heritage or environmentally sensitive zone.

Council report and consent (if applicable): Required if your design doesn’t comply with local building regulations such as setbacks or overshadowing. If approved, the council will issue a formal dispensation – an official exemption that allows you to proceed with the design outside standard planning rules.

Build over easement approval: Required if any part of your rebuild overlaps an easement used for stormwater, drainage or utility services.

Building permit: Once you’ve reached the construction stage, Henley will manage all necessary building permits on your behalf.

Knock down and rebuild project checklist meeting
Our team will guide you through the process and help you check everything off the list

Knock down rebuild homes specialist

We know that building a new house is easier and more enjoyable when you know what to expect. At Henley, we're here for you – from start to finish. Our focus is on honesty, transparency, delivery and support.

For more details about our build process, see our detailed guide Building with Us: Knockdown and Rebuild. This will step you through every stage from the first steps to the finishing touches on your brand-new home, and beyond.

If you have any questions, chat to a team member at any of our Display Home locations.

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Knock down rebuild specialist Jane Todd

Knockdown rebuild process FAQs