A Guide To Renovating In Adelaide2

A Guide To Renovating In Adelaide

Dubbed as Australia’s most affordable city, it’s no surprise that renovating in Adelaide is getting just as much attention as buying or selling a home in 2021.

While most Australians consider ‘Radelaide’ to be a relatively small city already, did you know that it takes twenty minutes to get just about anywhere in this pint sized metropolitan hub? The heart of South Australia is also the only city in the nation considered to be a free settlement – that is, it was not established by British convicts. Also known as the City of Opals and Churches, Adelaide has been at the centre of forward thinking – it was actually the first city to give women access to vote, recognise Indigenous land rights, as well as criminalise sexual and racial discrimination.

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One of the most attractive parts about living in Adelaide is it’s ongoing affordability, with rent sitting at a whopping 49% lower than Sydney on average. In turn, this has encouraged the locals to embrace the developing food and wine scene, with a host of new bars, restaurants and dining options popping up all over the city. Although it may only be Australia’s fifth largest city, residents really are getting the best of both worlds – the culture of a metropolitan area, a short drive to national parks and wineries, plus a stone’s throw to plenty of beaches – all without the price tag normally attached. In fact, in 2019 The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Adelaide as the world’s 10th most liveable city, based on factors such as healthcare, education and infrastructure. 

If living in what feels like a big country town is the vibe you’re chasing, then the good news is that it’s within reach for many Aussies. Although it may sound too good to be true, suburbs within 30km of the CBD still have three bedroom houses going for under $200,000, making Adelaide a popular place for both first home owners and investors to purchase their first (or second) properties. One thing to note about living in Adelaide is that while the character homes are visually stunning, they can require a great deal of maintenance to get them (and keep them) in tip top condition. If you’re brave enough to try and conquer this yourself as a DIY renovator, it’s important to have a firm grasp on the rules and regulations before you get started. 

What To Know About Renovating In Adelaide 

If you want to get your project right the first time and avoid a potentially costly disaster, it’s important to understand the basics of renovating in Adelaide before you get down to business.

Landowners require approval from their local council before starting most developments, to ensure that they comply with the State Government’s Residential Development Code. They must first receive planning consent, then building approval, before full development approval is granted. 

You’ll need to obtain Development Approval from Council before you undertake any of the following activities:

  • Demolish, construct, add or alter a building
  • Change the use of a property
  • Any tree damaging activity to a regulated or significant tree
  • Any external alterations (and in some cases also internal alterations) to a listed heritage place
  • Divide or alter the boundary of an allotment
  • Erect any signage 

While many people love living in Adelaide because of its history and character, it does also bring with it it’s fair share of red tape when it comes to renovating or restoring heritage homes. According to David Mews, an investor and buyer’s agent based in Adelaide, renovators looking to restore heritage properties should do their research before committing to such a property. 

“Councils in many suburbs are getting sick of knock down rebuilds and are trying to preserve the character streetscapes. So in a heritage suburb they probably won’t let you touch a home’s façade. You have to do your research and renovate according to local council zoning. Any property bought for renovations needs discussion with a council planning officer to ensure what you want to do is viable,” he says.

David recommends LocationSAMapViewer, which allows you to overlay heritage zones and other useful datasets, including bushfire zones (which affect renovation standards and building materials), and underground water and power assets, such as pipes and cables for specific areas and properties.

Another major point to note before renovating in Adelaide is the wide variety of rebates available for initiatives that can improve a property’s energy efficiency, such as installing LED lighting, solar power and solar hot water systems. As one of the driest states in Australia, there’s even rebates available towards the cost of installing rainwater tanks. In a nutshell, the State Government is doing it’s best to ensure both new and existing builds still preserve the character homes that Adelaide is well known for whilst still making the most of modern ‘green’ technology.

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Sourcing The Right Tiles To Bring Your Project To Life 

While your options for flooring materials are almost limitless, selecting the right type of tile for your home certainly isn’t an easy feat. With each space, comes a different preference or priority: are you chasing style, functionality, or simply want to stay within the budget?

In operation for over 24 years, at Tile Wizards we pride ourselves on getting you more – for less. We pioneered the warehouse format, and our stores are purposefully designed to make your selection easier, and ultimately offer our customers quality, price and the right advice. Be sure to visit one of our three Adelaide tile specialists stores, located in Para Hills West, Richmond and Lonsdale

Even if you are just after some honest and friendly advice – please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Tile Wizards today for a free quote. We’re able to work with you in order to bring your dream flooring solution to life.