Property points: can I subdivide my land?

The question of land subdivision is becoming increasingly important to Australians. Many Australians feel they don’t need as much space as they already have, and would like to subdivide the property to either sell or develop a rental home.

However, many homeowners automatically assume their property can be subdivided, only to get a rude shock when the council steps in and tells them, "uh uh - this can’t happen here”.

Therefore, to ensure you can undergo this process, you need to have trained professionals thoroughly inspect your property. They will be able to analyse the property’s access, slope and shape, as well as any services or utilities connected to the property.

With all this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the best land division SA surveyors provide and whether it is right for you:

Your council’s zoning rules apply

Because the council always has a say on whether you can undertake this process. Each council has their own zoning rules, with the rules determining the size of a block, the minimum setback distance, how much of the block can be used for a home etc.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to speak to your local council directly, but to make it even easier you can also enlist the help of a trusted land surveyor who can communicate with council about your block and its accessibility to subdivision!

What are the features of your land?

The block’s shape, slope and size can easily impact its access and workable area. Building could be completely impractical or very expensive if you are subdividing across a strange shape or steep slope, so it’s important that you understand your property and whether it is suitable for this process.

Returning to council regulations, your property’s size will determine if and how you can go about the work. You will have to consider the new property’s elements and the type of Title that is most suitable for the property. You will then have to consider how these factors will affect your plans for the property’s further development.

Is your property connected to numerous utilities?

There are numerous utilities that could impact your ability to subdivide. This includes elements like power, sewerage and water networks. These elements are compulsory for being able to legally undergo this process, and they cover aspects including:

Sewerage

It’s vital that you consider the cost of any new sewerage connections that might be required. This is often the most expensive element of a subdivision, especially if the property does not already reach the main sewerage system. If your block is steep, you will also have to think about costs for aspects like pumps to facilitate water reaching the sewer main from the bottom of the slope.

Water

What’s more, you will have to think about your water connections on the property. You can enlist a certified land surveyor who can help you understand the connections and what you would have to do to ensure the subdivision has full access to water supplies.

Electricity & internet

Finally, and whilst it’s not a compulsory requirement, you must consider electricity and internet connections, in which case you might need easements to fully comprehend these connections. It can be very expensive to connect a new block to electricity networks, and this may even require the installation of power poles and underground cables, so you will need to liaise with nearby property owners to ensure you can go ahead with this work.

As you can see, there are numerous elements to this work being undertaken, but that doesn't make it difficult, as you can simply enlist the best surveyors to help you every step of the way!