Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Aug 24, 2008 7:23 pm Hi,
I'm new here We are currently living in a single fronted Victorian on a small block, and dont see the point in renovating up to 2nd level....we have 3 bedrooms and its totally renovated, its just that we will be outgrowing it soon... In the meantime, we are wanting to add some highlight (above eye level) windows - approximately 4 (400mm x 3000mm) because the house is really dim in places purely because lots of the light only comes from bedroom windows, which are now shut a lot due to having bubbies in bed etc etc. WHERE DO WE START? Because we wont be able to see anything in our neighbours yard, do we need council permit? What is the 1st step to take - call a builder? Thanks Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 2Aug 25, 2008 6:57 pm First thing I would do is contact your local shire and ask if a permit is required?, and is the building heritage listed?
Second thing is get a good builder to have a look and offer advise on the price of the windows, installation of the windows, and any structural work required (lintols, roof propping etc etc) Third thing I would do is investigate all options, maybe putting rooflights on the roof to form an internal light well into your dark areas would be a cheaper easier possibility. Maybe putting a clear glazed panel over the existing bedroom doors would introduce more light. Last thing I would do if its all going ahead, is get a quote from 5 seperate builders, at the moment there are massive differences in prices between builders. Pat the draftie. Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 3Aug 25, 2008 6:59 pm I would call a builder to get an idea of what costs etc you are up for. If you are adding windows minimum you need is a building permit, as it is a structual change you are making.
Planning permits depend on the council, but if you are in a Victorian you may have a heritage overlay, which means you need a permit. Also, if the land is under 500sqm you often need one as well as they need to see how the windows will impact on the neighbours. Even if the windows wont look over your neighbours house, you still need to submit a permit, it just means you will get it aproved. Best way to check is just ring the council planning dept and explain what you are doing, and they can tell you then and there. Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 4Aug 25, 2008 10:34 pm Thanks for the hints guys...
I am just so confused...I am hoping the builder will have more idea than I do. I am REALLY hoping that I wont need a planning permit, as this would really delay the works....and I just want it done!!! I hope that because the windows are way above eye level (we have 14 ft ceilings) and because its minor, then we can just go ahead I might call my council tomorrow and see if I can just explain what I want to do and see what they can help with info... I'd prob get 2-3 quotes. Assuming I DID need to apply for permits - how long does this process take, assuming that the approval was given....??? Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 5Aug 26, 2008 10:25 am Hi Mammy,
Even though the window work is minor, if you have a heritage overlay it doesn't matter, you still need to submit a planning application. It is so the council can record the changes that have been made to the house, and make sure it ties in with the style of the heritage period. Council can be a bit stupid about this stuff, but unfortunately its the motions you have to go through. I recently did one for a client where we were changing all these windows down the side of the house, submitted all the applications, only to be told we didn't need one. On another job, we were changing a door to a window, exact same size and shape so no stuctual changes, but as it was a heritage overlay we had to put one in. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks to have them approved, and you shouldn't have to pay a fee as the work is not expensive enough. Just don't go ahead thinking it will be fine, as if the council finds out you can get fined or they can make you reverse the work you have done. And you will need a building permit, as you will have to add a lintel above the new window, and this is classed a structual change and you need to notify council. Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 6Aug 26, 2008 7:29 pm sorry. assume i am an IDIOT..what is a lintel?
I know there is no heritage overlay. But I think I might lodge a permit all the same...eeeek scary I wish I knew more so I was more confident. Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 8Aug 26, 2008 7:37 pm ok so my sister just informed me this will support the existing structure so yes that makes sense what a lintel is.
I will contact the builder first in any case and then maybe get council approval 1. - get a builder to estimate cost and what size to go with etc, and job span, 2. Speak to affected neighbours as a courtesey... 3. Obtain a permit from council for the proposed works 4. Commence changes AGREE? Re: Adding Windows in hallways above eye level.... 9Aug 26, 2008 11:15 pm sounds good to me
Sorry to scare you with all the permit talk, its just that I have seen so many people do things the wrong way and it comes back to bite them later. Good luck with it! Flashings over doorways and windows our carpenter has installed flashings that is buckled and short of the window frames and door frames is this right Is there a… 0 1152 Hey, I am wanting to add a second toilet to my house, bit we have limited room. There is a hallway/entry that is never used, so was thinking this could be an option. Only… 0 3000 Thanks for sharing. Looks good. The joiner has come back with a quote of close to 5k. I think we are going to not do it. Attaching panelling is something they are dead… 11 10083 |