Everything You Need To Know To Plan A Knock-Down Rebuild
If you’ve recently purchased a dishevelled property intending to renovate, you might find it’s easier and cheaper to organise a knock-down rebuild instead. Although completely rebuilding might feel daunting, the whole process becomes far more straightforward when you have the knock-down rebuild specialists at Ambrose on your team. We’re passionate about helping our clients build the home of their dreams, so we’re here to step you through the process of a knock-down rebuild in Brisbane.
Sourcing Approvals
Before you start planning your knock-down rebuild, you’ll need to do a bit of paperwork to make sure everything is good to go.
- Check the title documents.Make sure everything is squared away with the title documents. You’ll need to double-check the boundaries of your land so you don’t infringe on anyone else’s property.
- Check with your local council.Building requirements and regulations may have changed from the time the original structure was built.
- Is your property heritage listed? If you’ve purchased a very old property that is a perfect example of the architecture of its time, it may be heritage listed, so you won’t be able to knock it down. In fact, any alterations to the facade will need to be approved by the council, right down to repainting. Heritage colour schemes vary from era to era, so these properties need to retain their original colours. Usually, you’ll know whether or not a property is heritage listed before you purchase, but it can never hurt to double-check.

Engage Knock-Down Rebuild Specialists
If you’re looking to knock down and rebuild in Brisbane, you’ll need to find experienced professionals to handle the project from start to finish, which is where the team at Ambrose comes in. We have a pretty straightforward process for a knockdown and rebuild, which includes;

- Meet with us.We’ll do an initial consultation with you to better understand what you’re looking for in a home. We’ll work alongside you to create the home of your dreams, whatever that might look like.
- Site inspection.Our project manager will need to visit your site to make sure the land is suitable for construction, there is accessibility for vehicles, electricity and water connections, the local traffic, neighbouring lot conditions, and anything else that may impact construction.
- We’ll provide a quote.Once we’ve done our preliminary inspections and understand what you’re looking for, we’ll give you a quote.
- Drawing up the plans.Once all the initial paperwork is out of the way, we’ll draw up the plans for your new home, and you’ll have time to review them and make any changes. We’ll then lodge your building plans for approval with a certifier.
- The existing structure is demolished. The old house is torn down to make way for your dream home. We’ll walk you through that process below.
- Site revisit.Once demolition is complete, our project manager will revisit the site to ensure everything is in order for the build. We’ll also grab the demolition certificates from the demolition company.
- We’ll begin construction. After sending your lender a final copy of your Building Approval, you’ll receive an Authority to Commence Construction letter.
Things To Keep In Mind When Planning Your Rebuild
When you’re initially planning your new home with the Ambrose team, it’s important to consider the following factors to ensure you get the home of your dreams.
- What are you planning to build? The team at Ambrose have been in the home construction business for a while, so we have existing house plans you can look through if you’re not interested in customisation. However, we’re also renowned for our luxury custom builds, so if you’d prefer to design your home from the ground up, we can help you do just that.
- Your budget. Everyone has a budget, and it’s important to stick to it as closely as possible throughout the knockdown and rebuild process. Share your budget with the team at Ambrose from the beginning so we can help you plan a build that doesn’t leave a hole in your pocket.
- Your needs. Everyone’s family requires different things from their home, so make a list of non-negotiable points you can’t live without. Whether it’s wheelchair access, a swimming pool, or energy-efficient appliances, we’ll factor it into your build.
- The neighbourhood. It’s wise to get a real estate agent to appraise the land before you build so you don’t overcapitalise on your rebuild. The last thing you want is a home that will someday sell for less than you put in!

Organising Demolition
Many construction companies require you to organise a demolition company externally to their services, but not Ambrose. We take care of your whole knock-down rebuild from start to finish, including your demolition.

- The assessment. The demolitions team will check the existing structure and carry out the necessary admin and assessment. If they need additional information from you, we’ll make sure the request is processed quickly.
- Getting approval.From there, the necessary paperwork that comprises the demolition permit is submitted to the local council for review. After a few business days, the council will send the demolition permit, and work can finally begin.
- The existing structure is demolished, and all the old materials will be professionally moved from the site. Once the site is cleared and the sewer is capped, someone will inspect the site to ensure everything is safe and complete.
- Final certification. Forms, certificates, and photos will be sent away to show the demolition has been completed. A form 21 will be issued to the landowner and the council so the building application can be finalised.
Building Your New Home
Finally, the rebuild phase of the project can begin, and the team of construction experts at Ambrose will work toward building your dream home. We’re proud to say that our team uses only premium materials and provides the highest-quality workmanship, so your luxury rebuild will be built to the highest possible standards. We’ll take care of every little detail from the floorplan all the way through to the doorknobs and water faucets. We can even organise bespoke pool design to suit your land size and budget and expert landscaping services to deliver a stunning yard you can enjoy all year round. There’s nothing the team at Ambrose can’t handle, and we’re excited to bring your vision to life.
If You’re Planning A Knock Down Rebuild, Get In Touch With The Team At Ambrose
At Ambrose, we specialise in building innovative, inspiring homes in the Brisbane area. Our team put their hearts and souls into each and every project, and we’re proud of the impeccable results we’re able to deliver on each renovation and build. With years of experience under our belts and a team of experienced, dedicated tradespeople, Ambrose is here to bring your dream home to life. We value communication, trust, teamwork, quality, and respect, and we bring those values to every build to ensure our clients receive the very best workmanship every time. So if you’re looking to organise a knockdown rebuild in Brisbane, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Ambrose. Are you ready to make your dream home a reality?