Is the property worth taking further?
We start with three practical questions: is there a suitable place to build, can construction reach it, and are there site conditions that could significantly affect the design or budget?
Is there a practical place to build?
Not how large the backyard looks — how much usable space remains.
Setbacks, services and existing structures all reduce what's actually usable.
- Backyard dimensions and shape
- Required setbacks from boundaries
- Existing home, sheds and other structures
- Easements and underground services
- Flood, vegetation and other property constraints
- Space for parking and private open space, where required
Can the site be reached and built efficiently?
Finding space for the building is only half the assessment.
Machinery, materials and trades still need a practical way to reach the backyard.
- Clear access width and height
- Gates, fences, eaves and other obstructions
- Trees, branches and overhead services
- Road access and delivery conditions
- Space for unloading, storage and machinery
- Impact on the existing home during construction
What could change the design or budget?
The aim is to catch these early — before they become costs later.
Some site conditions won't stop a build, but they can change the foundations, drainage or construction method.
- Slope, level changes and soil conditions
- Retaining work or more complex foundations
- Stormwater and site drainage requirements
- Distance to sewer, water and power connections
- Service protection or relocation
- Demolition, clearing and manual material handling