Don’t know about chippies but electricians and plumbers definitely need to be licenced.

Depending on the length and height, non-load bearing walls are pretty simple. As for your door opening, I seem to recall from your previous post that it is load bearing. This is where you need to be careful. Not hard to do but you need to follow the right process.

Not that I have been in a position to require a pre-nup but tend to agree with Celivia. While the head might say its a good idea, the heart will probably run the other way. Regardless of the legalities, this could stop romance in its tracks.

Interesting comments Mooki. As a divorced father, I have to say the Family Court of NSW is a place to…[Read more]

Hi Leoau,

Was going to ask something similar to Celivia. Without knowing your background and the actual details of the work you are doing, kitchens are notoriously expensive, even moving an existing one. Plumbers, electricians, tilers etc can be exy!

As for the approvals process, different states have different requirements. I remember in NSW,…[Read more]

Hi Flash,

Where did you get the quote for $500. Have been looking into it for our PoPR and so far is a lot more than that. What do you get for the money, the whole door, motor etc or is it just the motor for an existing door?

cheers

Jan

I’ve heard of a glass jaw but….

Dazzling, where can I get one of your crystal balls? Got the AFL and the boxing right! Sydney V West Coast and Hall facing the tribunal for “boxing”!!

I agree with Simon. Makes a huger difference when potential purchasers first walk in. Gets rid of the “well, we have to replace the carpets” haggle as well!

Hi Mrisoli,

With respect to owner-builder, I believe the rule is you must own the property for 3 years following completion and not build again as an owner builder for 6 years. At least thats for WA.

If you wish to renovate / build under a company structure, I am guessing you will be doing more than 1 every 6 years and for other people. For…[Read more]

Hi Avranjes,

I seem to recall a thread of similar nature a while back which discussed this issue.

I was in an identical position to you a few years back where I had used the FHOG while my partner had not. We were advised that we (she) could still apply for it as long as it was only her name on the title. You can still have both names on the…[Read more]

I would have thought that the developer would actually install the fence in the first place and you would pay for it as part of the cost of your land??

I got it Redwing, love it!!

I did see that one and can’t really comment on the managed unit scenario too much. Nice idea and the villas looked beautiful!

What I did find interesting was the prices they were asking for for units in Croatia! $300k Australian for a 2/3 bedder!! That would put it in line with prices in Australia! Can’t imagine the locals paying that for…[Read more]

Hi Vernon,

With respect to sewer connections, I have just had that done over here in Perth and involves the following:

1. Divert Sewer line from house so it goes to sewer mains rather than septic system.
2. Pump out existing septic tanks
3. Fill the tanks with sand and compact.
4. Sign off by plumber that work has been completed and conncected…[Read more]

Redwing,

In management speak thats “Is that crystal?”

Hi Omachi,

You have a number of options depending on how much aggravation you want. Sorry Sharon, I would steer clear of tile paint particularly for high traffic floor areas. For the price you pay, you are better off with relaying tiles!

Option 1 would be not pay the guy as he hasn’t fulfilled his obligation of the quotation and get another…[Read more]

A couple more Redwing:

Are all inclusions listed on the contract still there? Could include window coverings, light fittings, even the washing line.
Has all the crap been removed from the property. Dazzling, I seem to recall this was an issue of yours!

cheers

Jan

You should have seen the looks on the faces at the Greek wedding!! I cracked up!

Hey Jarrod,

Cannot comment on the structuring issue however would be interested in responses as it is something I looking to embark on over here in Perth.

As for licensing, what are you referring to? Is the personal or company license for all your projects (Builders license) or license from local government authorities for specific…[Read more]

Andrew,

Just so you are aware, you don’t necessarily need to have an easement for the sewer line if it is owned by the authority. I think they just need access to the pits.

cheers

Jan

Hi Aptam,

My first thought would be, assuming that the 5 houses are all green title properties, would that sewer line be classified as a mains anyway and be the responsibility of the water authority?

The problem that you face is that even though the problem lies with your neighbour, they have the ability to give you some headaches as well. What…[Read more]