With almost every property, boundary fences either exist or are to be erected. There are specific laws with boundary fences, in relation to adjoining owners obligations. Both property owners are generally responsible for contributing to the cost of a fence and normally would agree on the type to be erected, thus sharing the cost. If […]
Swimming Pool Safety
May 15, 2015 3 Comments
Swimming pools occupy many back yards and are incorporated in many new home designs around Tasmania. From the blow up frameless temporary type, right through to the concrete formed and fibreglass/acrylic pre-formed pools, there are many shapes and sizes. Did you know that ANY pool deeper than 300mm requires, by law, to be securely fenced […]
Do I Need Council Approval?
November 28, 2012 337 Comments
In short the answer is Yes, for any alterations or additions to your building or property. As with most things there are always exceptions. There may be State legislation exemptions, size of the project, value or simply the nature. Our advice however, is if in doubt accept first that council approval is required then seek […]
How to become an Owner Builder.
June 24, 2013 4 Comments
Many home owners, when considering building, like the idea and the satisfaction of being an Owner Builder. This, on the face of it, seems like an easy, rewarding and more cost effective alternative to engaging a contract builder. BE WARNED!!! It’s not that easy and not always more cost effective. Legislation within Tasmania allow for […]
Small Jobs, not all DIY.
May 16, 2013 2 Comments
It has always been alleged that plans for small building projects around the home such as a new deck, shed, garage or carport can be done almost by anyone, in particular the property owner. Changes to the Building Act in Tasmania has resulted in some small projects having less ‘Red Tape’ but still require the […]
Know your building costs.
March 18, 2013 1 Comment
We all know that every year building costs keep going up. More and more regulation requirements must be met at both the planning and building stages and material prices are always on the increase. When deciding to build, the cost allowance in most minds is generally a M2 price based on the size of the […]
Winter warmer for low income households.
June 5, 2013 Leave a Comment
Following on from our recent article titled ‘Winter tips to improving the comfort of your existing home’ we wish to promote this excellent initiative to assist low income households. The Tasmanian Government, with the assistance from SEMF, have a state-wide program to help reduce energy cost to low income households. This program is available to people on […]
Winter tips to improving the comfort of your existing home.
May 23, 2013 2 Comments
Not everyone has the luxury of upgrading old windows or doing a full renovation of their existing home. Winter soon reveals how comfortable your home is…..or not! With increasing energy costs, you soon realise how expensive your winter heating costs are. Here are a few, inexpensive tips to make your home more comfortable in the […]
The science behind your wastewater disposal.
May 30, 2013 2 Comments
There are many areas around Tasmania that are un-serviced (without council or water authority sewer and stormwater services). For these areas all your wastewater from your toilet, kitchen, bathroom and laundry must be disposed of within your property boundaries. It’s not generally a topic property owners get excited about but it is essential that the […]