The Complete Checklist For The Knock Down Rebuild Process

Looking for that new-home feel without the hassle of moving to a new location? For many Australian families, a knockdown rebuild offers the best of both worlds. It allows you to stay in your current location while enjoying the benefits of a home upgrade. Whether your current home requires a makeover, or you want to upgrade your home to make it modern and more energy-efficient, a knock down rebuild enables you to get a fresh start without the added hassle of a new home build. In this blog, McDonald Jones Homes explores unique steps, costs and approvals you should consider before starting the process. Without careful planning, you are likely to run into delays or budget issues. That’s why following a clear knockdown rebuild checklist is the key to navigating the process with confidence.

Assess Property Potential

Before you begin the knock down rebuild process, it is important to confirm the suitability of your property. 

• Zoning laws and local planning regulations – Confirm with your local council whether a knockdown rebuild is permitted in your area. Some properties may be affected by zoning overlays, bushfire zones, or flood-prone classifications.
• Heritage restrictions – If your home is heritage-listed or in a conservation area, demolition may not be allowed, or strict guidelines could apply.
• Land size and orientation – Ensure the block dimensions align with the home design you want. Consider natural light, privacy and setbacks from neighbouring properties.
• Access for demolition and construction – Narrow or sloping blocks can present additional challenges, so it is important to confirm access for machinery. 

Working with an experienced builder like McDonald Jones Homes is the best way to confirm whether your property meets local council requirements. 

Budget & Finance

The next step is to get a clear idea of the cost to knock down and rebuild. The process involves more than just construction costs, so creating a clear budget will help you avoid unexpected expenses down the road. 

• Demolition costs – These can vary depending on the size of the home, the materials used and whether it involves handling of materials like asbestos.
• Site preparation – This includes levelling, clearing debris and soil testing
• Council fees and permits – Be sure to consider all application fees, inspections and compliance costs.
• Construction costs – Costs may vary depending on the size of the home, finishes and inclusions.
• Temporary accommodation – Include the cost of renting and other expenses that may arise during the knock down and rebuild process.
• Contingency fund – An emergency fund of around 10–15% of your budget is recommended to cover expenses over and above your budget. 
   

Hire a Trusted Builder

The knock down rebuild process requires specialised skills and often more coordination than a regular home build. That’s where an experienced builder like McDonald Jones Homes comes in. Here’s what your knock down and rebuild package should include: 

• Specialist knockdown rebuild experience – A builder who understands demolition, approvals and rebuild timelines.
• End-to-end management – From design to handover, the builder should handle approvals, contracts and construction.
• Transparent pricing – Clear inclusion lists, upfront costs and realistic timelines.
• Strong local knowledge – Familiarity with local council requirements saves you time and stress.

At McDonald Jones Homes, we’ve designed thousands of knock down rebuild homes by offering a streamlined process, award-winning designs and trusted partnerships.

Design Your New Home

One of the greatest advantages of a knockdown rebuild is the freedom to create a home that perfectly suits your family and lifestyle. Your new home drawing should include: 

• Floor plan layout – Open-plan living, multiple living zones, or home offices for hybrid working styles
• Lifestyle features – Alfresco areas, gourmet kitchens, media rooms or guest suites.
• Energy efficiency – Solar panels, high-quality insulation materials and natural ventilation for long-term savings.
• Future-proofing – Consider how your lifestyle needs might change over the coming years.

McDonald Jones Homes offers a wide range of home designs tailored to different block sizes, from large family homes to split-level designs for sloping land.
 

Council Approvals

Council approvals can make or break the knockdown rebuild experience. Depending on your location, you may need:

• Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) – Approval for demolition and construction.
• BASIX certificate – To ensure your home meets sustainability standards.
• Tree removal permits – If large trees are on the property.
• Heritage or zoning-related approvals – Where applicable.

Your builder should manage this process, ensuring that you are aware of how it affects the cost to knock down and rebuild. 

Plan Demolition

The key steps involved in the demolition process are: 

• Hiring licensed contractors – Only certified demolition companies can safely handle structural demolition.
• Asbestos removal – If your home was built before the 1990s, asbestos may be present and must be removed by specialists.
• Utility disconnections – Gas, water and electricity must be safely disconnected before work begins.
• Site clearance – All waste and debris must be removed to prepare for construction
   

Temporary Accommodation

A knock down rebuild budget should also include the cost of temporary accommodation since you won’t be able to live in your home during demolition and construction. Options to consider are: 

• Renting a nearby property.
• Staying with friends or family.
• Short-term furnished accommodation.

Factor these costs into your budget and aim for a rental period that aligns with your builder’s timeline.

Construction and Handover

Trusted builders like McDonald Jones Homes provide you with a detailed timeline for foundation work, framing, roofing and internal finishes.

During the construction process, our building team ensures that: 

• We stay in regular communication with your site supervisor.
• Regular walkthroughs are scheduled to monitor progress.
• Inclusions in your contract are checked to ensure everything matches your selections.

After a final inspection, you’ll receive the keys to your brand-new home, located on the same block and location. 
 

Knock Down Rebuild Homes for Families in Australia

From a brand new home drawing to council approvals and construction, McDonald Jones Homes ensures that every step of the knock down rebuild process is smooth. By following a clear knockdown rebuild checklist, you’ll avoid delays, stay on budget and enjoy a stress-free process from demolition to handover. Contact our team today to discuss your new home design and upgrade your lifestyle without moving to a new location.