---
title: "The Knockdown Rebuild Process — Step by Step (2026)"
description: "A complete step-by-step guide to the knockdown rebuild process in Australia, from feasibility to handover. Timelines, costs, and key decisions."
source: KnockdownRebuildCost
sourceUrl: https://kdrcost.com/guides/knockdown-rebuild-process
lastUpdated: 2026-05-31
citationUrl: https://kdrcost.com/guides/knockdown-rebuild-process
---

# The Knockdown Rebuild Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

A complete step-by-step guide to the knockdown rebuild process in Australia, from feasibility to handover. Timelines, costs, and key decisions.

Before committing to a KDR, you need to confirm the project is physically and financially viable on your block. This stage involves:

This is where timelines vary most. You will need both a demolition permit and approval for the new build. In most states you have two approval pathways:

Once you have your demolition permit, the demo contractor will:

The new build follows the standard residential construction sequence. Key milestones and typical durations:

At practical completion, your builder will arrange a handover inspection. Bring a building inspector ($400–$600) to document any defects. Under Australian Consumer Law, your builder must rectify defects within the defect liability period (typically 6–12 months in most states). You will receive:

## Stage 1: Feasibility Assessment (2–4 weeks)

## Stage 2: Design & Council Approvals (8–16 weeks)

## Stage 3: Demolition (2–4 weeks)

## Stage 4: Site Preparation (2–4 weeks)

## Stage 5: New Home Construction (10–14 months)

## Stage 6: Practical Completion & Handover

## Common KDR Pitfalls to Avoid

## Get your KDR estimate

#### Guides

#### Company

## Key Points

- Site assessment — check block dimensions, fall, soil conditions, easements, and any overlays (heritage, bushfire, flood). A geotechnical (soil) test costs $2,000–$4,000 and determines foundation requirements.
- Council overlays — review your local council's planning scheme for setbacks, height limits, site coverage, overlooking rules, and any heritage or neighbourhood character overlays that restrict design.
- Budget estimate — get a rough cost estimate for demolition + new build. Our KDR calculator gives you a starting figure based on your suburb, size, and build quality.
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC) — faster (2–4 weeks), but only available if your design meets all state and council standards with no variations. Works best for standard designs on uncomplicated blocks.
- Development Application (DA) — required if your design needs any planning variations, or if the site has overlays. Takes 8–16 weeks and involves public notification and potentially a planning panel.
- Disconnect all services — electricity, gas, water, sewer, and telecommunications. Your electricity distributor (e.g., AusNet, Ausgrid, Energex) typically needs 10–15 business days' notice.
- Remove asbestos-containing materials (ACM) — this must be done by a licensed asbestos removalist before mechanical demolition begins. See our asbestos removal cost guide.
- Mechanically demolish the structure, sort materials for recycling, and remove debris to a licensed tip.
- Provide a clearance certificate confirming all hazardous materials have been removed.
- Occupancy certificate from your building surveyor

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*Source: [KnockdownRebuildCost](https://kdrcost.com/guides/knockdown-rebuild-process)*