Building on a sloping block on the Northern Beaches

The Northern Beaches is full of beautiful, steep blocks. They give you the views, the breeze and the privacy. They also bring challenges that a flat block never will. Here's what to expect.

Start with the ground

A geotechnical report tells your engineer what's under the surface: sand, clay or rock. That shapes your footings, and it can change your budget. Rock excavation in particular can be slow and costly.

Access is a cost

If a truck can't get close, materials get moved by hand, crane or conveyor. Narrow streets and steep driveways are common here, so we plan deliveries and site setup before we start.

Water always runs downhill

Stormwater and drainage need careful design on a slope. Council requirements for managing stormwater can affect your design and your costs, so we deal with it early.

Retaining walls and level changes

Split levels and retaining walls are often part of the answer. Good design works with the slope instead of fighting it, which usually saves money and gives a better home.

Bushfire ratings

Many sloping, bushland-edge blocks carry a bushfire attack level (BAL) rating. That affects windows, decking, cladding and screens. Know your rating before you lock in materials.