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Checking out the Section
Do your homework before you buy! Building covenants, zoning, land contours, soil stability, protected trees! A vast array of issues relating to a section may affect or restrict the type of home you can build.
Make sure you find all the boundary pegs and that they correspond with what's shown on the survey plans.
If you have any doubt, get a surveyor to confirm the boundaries. Some sections will have all services (water, power and phone) right up to the boundary - others won't. Check out the proximity of services and the cost of getting them "on site".
Be mindful of access. A long driveway or difficult access for machinery can make a huge different to the overall building cost.
Check for building covenants.It is not uncommon for developers to place covenants on sections which stipulate that the building must be completed within a specified time, or to a particular size or standard. Many other restrictions could apply.
Locate the property file at your local council.If you are renovating an existing home this contains information on previous building work associated with your home.
Paperwork, Tests Consents
What is a LIM? A LIM (Land Information Memorandum) from the council provides important information about the property such as legal description, storm water and drainage, special land features i.e. flooding, erosion, conservation or heritage protections, any orders or notices about rates, government valuations and consents.
Will I need a resource consent? In most cases no. But to be sure, your should research the local district scheme that is available at the planning department of the relevant council. This will provide information on zoning, site restrictions, landscaping, car parking, access and any protected trees or neighbours' rights.
Does the section require surveying? If the site isn't flat and there are no surveyed plans available you will need to get a surveyor to plot the land contours. If you are planning to build close to the boundary, the placement of foundations will need to be plotted by a registered surveyor and the height of the building in relation to the boundary will require confirmation. Height to boundary regulations are designed to ensure that a building will not cast shadows or adversely affect the daylight available to neighbouring properties.
Do you require soil tests? If the section is steep or complex in nature, or you anticipate a reasonable amount of excavation or retaining, you may need to engage a geotechnical engineer to test for soil stability, soakage etc.
Step 2 The design brief
