Semi-detached homes can be considered a knock-off for single-use homes. While most homes are for single use only, real estate agents and lessors have created a solution to be able to provide affordable homes for renters and lessees. This connotes the innovation of single homes being able to provide 2 spaces with a common ground, which is only divided by a wall in between; thus a semi-detached home. Nonetheless, the primary point of such homes is to provide access for two families to enjoy an additional extension of land where they can have access to common ways, but still with shared responsibility.
Yet, if you’re one of the homeowners in a semi-detached home and wants to demolish it, you might be wondering if it is legal; breaking a house that seems connected to the other, or seen as one on the outside, might not be good for the whole structure of the house. You might have a lot of reasons to demolish half of the house, but legally, it is essential to seek professional advice on whether or not you can do so.
Demolishing a semi-detached house in Australia
Now, if you’re considering bringing that wrecking ball and having half of the house demolished, you can actually do so. However, there are several considerations first before you actualize that thought, and it would be essential to follow these steps to have your demolition project going.
Ask for the house blueprint
You might be living in a different house with your neighbour, but the whole blueprint of your house might inevitably be connected with the other. As it is initially one house on the outside, an overview of the blueprint of the house might be necessary to know how much you can demolish and which part must remain.
Ask for Professional Advice
On the phone to call a demolition team? Not yet. Unless you’re an engineer yourself and know if it’s okay to demolish the other part of the semi-detached house, it will be beneficial for you to ask an architect or an engineer if the demolition may have a huge impact on your neighbours. If it does not, then you’re on to the next step.
Mind your neighbour
Still, you must also ask your neighbour if it will be okay for them to have the other part of the house demolished; remember you are still sharing the same space with them, and the demolition process should not be a hindrance to having access to your common space or disrupt them from doing their usual errands.
Seek advice from your Council
Initially, all demolitions must be under the Australian Standard AS2601. Yet, different states and regions have varying regulations on standards of demolition, wherein all statures must also be complied with. Once approved by your council, they may require additional permits for semi-detached homes.
A semi-detached home is a common way to have two tenants in one house. While it may look like a single house on the outside, it is divided with a massive wall in the middle, a solution that builds double cottages entails lower costs, and can be built faster than individual detached homes. Nevertheless, if you want it to be demolished, you can always do so, but ensuring approvals from your neighbor, seeking professional advice from the architect or engineer, and having an endorsement from your city council is always a must. But if everything is good already, then it’s time to bring in your demolition team to do the job for you.
