Building on a steep slope in Brisbane

We've signed contract for a block of land that is uneven and rather steep (13 meters drop for 45 meters according to google). One of the conditions is due diligence checks, and we're still trying to find out whether we'd be able to build on that block of land without going over budget. We've talked to one architect and builder (they work together), and according to them it is going to cost us arm and leg, and it is still unclear what hidden costs are – basically we want a second opinion, and we've only got a few days to get it.

We've got soil and slope tests done, geotech test will be finished in 2 days, and we have an approximate sketch of a house design we want.

Could someone recommend a good builder in Brisbane who has experience in building on slope blocks and would be able to give us at least rough estimates for civil and construction works ?

Hey vlad welcome to the forum
Generally on extremely difficult blocks it's advisable not to move past preliminary alternate sketches and engineering
get 3 Sketches/quotes from different builders
Rough quantities can be extracted and building costs applied to give ball park figures
If you want better answers put up more info ,ie. plans , elevations etc + it also helps others
Cheers
Chris

Hi Chris, thanks for your reply.

We don't have things like plans and elevations, unfortunately. This is the land though: https://www.realestate.com.au/property/ ... n-qld-4051. 7th photo has a sketch of what previous owner was planning on doing there. We want something similar in terms of the house, but no pool and tennis court. Just the driveway, fill the gully a bit and the multi-level house towards the top of the hill.

Hmm.. if you have no idea of the survey, design, engineering and costs then steer well clear.
I doubt you'll be able to get the site works & retaining within a budget let alone the house, pool , tennis court and driveway?
OT, Apologies for the reality check, it's best to be honest up front
Seek out the hidden costs, BAL, Material Handling, environmental, storm water, Soil Stability, Scaffolding, etc,etc
Cheers
Chris

Hi Vlad

Apologies for not being able to recommend a Brisbane builder, but I wouldn't be too stressed if I were you. The fact that the first builder you spoke to said it would cost you an arm and a leg just means that they probably dont know what they are talking about or how to think laterally with this type of build and therfore isnt the right fit.

We are currently doing a couple on the North Shore of Sydney far worse then yours and by working with the slope of the land to minimise excavation we are keeping our clients budgets to around the $2000-2100/sqm.

I am sure you will find someone similar in Brisbane. If you want. PM me and Ill send you some plans so you can see what I mean

cheers

Simeon

Hey, why don't you put up the plans @ $2000m2 so others can see what you mean?
Better still take out a paid advert on Homeone, That's the decent thing to do if you are spruiking for work?
HTH

Thanks for your constructive feedback

Hi Chris

I just wanted to thank you again for your excellent help and advice yesterday. I hadn't really thought about an an advertising package on here as I didn't really understand how it all worked.

But based on your suggestion I contacted the Homeone team this morning, who I have to say are incredibly helpful and I will definitely be taking out an advertising package.

Again, thank you so much for all of your helpful insights. I just love how nice people are on here.

have a great weekend

Cheers

Simeon

Hey Simeon
Great, win win for you and homeone
Looking forward to seeing some of your projects
May I suggest, knowing how long it takes to complete them, that you incorporate 3D Bim ....
don't forget the Engineering data/proofs, relevant information and costs

Cheers
Chris

Thanks Chris

I will definitely considering what you are recommending with BIM, have used it on my commercial projects and its great for co ordinating structural and services and helping with pricing.

Do you know any good residential specialists on the east coast?

cheers

Simeon

No, Sorry I don't.
I would recommend you choose some one locally that uses Revit software as it has all the Architectural, Engineering & Construction (AEC) Modules. My2c ,Steer clear of the less capable programmes.ie archicad, vectorworks, sketchup, ( also priced, high -> low, No of users, low -> high) etc... you judge
Cheers
Chris

Sloping blocks are our favourites! I recommend Structerre (engineers, slope stability, soil test, hydraulics) and The House Designers (Marcus - Drafty)

What are your thoughts regarding this block?

Considerations and advice welcome

Hey Vlad!

Did you end up finding someone to build?