Changes to building codes in Queensland could help Bulimba real estate owners save thousands of dollars on home construction and renovation, according to the state government.
Reforms to current approvals processes – which have been described as "illogical" and "ad hoc" by the Queensland minister for housing and public works – could make it much easier to obtain a development permit to build over or near sewers, stormwater drains or water mains on domestic property sites.
Tim Mander added that the proposed new building code could help homeowners avoid a complex approval process – and also save up to $2,000.
The current process involves seeking out permission from a relevant service provider – and in some cases, the local authority – under the provisions set out in the Water Supply Act, he explained. But confusingly, there are no specific criteria that must be met, and there is no set process to be followed when making an application.
He explained: "Fees associated with negotiating these unduly complicated processes, can run into the thousands of dollars, all for the privilege of building on your own land."
To address the problem, a revised code will "remove superfluous layers of regulation" and could also make the regulation process faster and more cost effective. It is likely that the code could come into effect before the end of this year.
Mr Mander explained that this is just one of a series of significant reforms that could help boost the real estate construction industry – and could save Queensland homeowners a considerable amount of money.
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