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Why Council Asks for More Information (and How to Avoid the Delay)

A request for information can stall a DA for weeks. These are the usual triggers, from missing survey data to drawings that don't match each other, and how to avoid them before you lodge.

BASIX Explained for NSW Homeowners

BASIX sets energy, water and thermal targets for NSW homes. Here's when you need a certificate, what it changes in your design, and why it has to match your drawings exactly.

Knock-Down Rebuild in Sydney: What to Check Before You Start Drafting

Before a single line is drawn on a knock-down rebuild, a few site checks decide what you can build. Zoning, heritage, flood, bushfire, trees and sewer lines are the big ones.

Can My Block Fit a Duplex? A Plain-English Site Check for NSW

Lot size and width, zoning, slope, driveway access and council minimums decide whether a duplex works on your block. Here's how to read your site before you spend on design.

Granny Flats in NSW: CDC or DA, and What Your Block Needs

Granny flats are popular for family and rental income. Here's what the rules generally require, when a CDC works and when you'll need a DA, and the issues that catch people out.

Why You Need a Detail Survey Before Drafting

Accurate drawings start with an accurate survey. Here's what a detail and contour survey shows, why it matters for height and overshadowing, and what happens when it's skipped.

How to Read Your Drawing Set: A Homeowner's Guide

Site plan, floor plan, elevations, sections, shadow diagrams. Here's what each sheet in your set shows, what to check, and how to give feedback that keeps your project moving.

How to Prepare for a Residential Drafting Project

Before engaging a drafter, it's wise to gather key information about your site, clarify your budget, and understand the potential approval pathways and timelines. Proper preparation ensures a smoother, more efficient drafting process from the very beginning.