Hi,
I have recently purchased my first home. It is an AVJennings House (pre-designed) & Land Package in Canberra, which is being built at the moment.
I have recently been informed by AVJennings that I am required to fork out an additional $7,925 in order for the plans to be approved by the ACT Planning & Land Authority (ACTPLA). Specifically, ACTPLA require two variations in order for the plans to be approved and construction to commence. They are as follows:
1. Provide FRL60/60/60 construction from footings to underside of non-combustible roof coverings, as per BCA 3.7.1.10. This is to be conducted to elevation D for both Bedroom 2 and the garage walls, as detailed within plans; and
2. Provide engineered integrated retaining wall, with waterproofing and drainage to elevation D of Bedroom 2 and garage walls, as detailed within plans. NB. Revised finish internally to base of wall within garage only (Exposed face brickwork).
AVJennings are trying to sting me with $2,589 for Variation 1, and $5,336 for Variation 2. Equating to $7,925 in total!!!
Seeing as though this was a pre-designed house and land package, I want to confirm who is actually responsible for the additional $7,925? I have emailed ACTPLA, although am currently awaiting a response from them. I haven't confronted AVJennings about this yet, as I want confirmation prior to 'stirring the water'.
The funny thing about this was that immediately after receiving a phone call from AVJennings informing me of this, they emailed me a Building Variation Request, detailing what is to be conducted and sign to agree to paying the total amount of $7,295!!?
Seeing as though this is my first home, I have absolutely no clue about this. And $8,000 is a hell of a lot of money for me, so I'm willing to put in the hard yards to exactly who is liable for this!
If anyone could shed some light on this topic, I would be forever in your debt!!