Essential Site Assessment Checklist for Dual Occupancy and Secondary Dwelling Opportunities

Real estate agents are increasingly fielding inquiries from buyers seeking properties with development potential, particularly for dual occupancies and secondary dwellings. Understanding how to quickly assess a site's development potential can give you a significant edge in the market. Here's your comprehensive guide to conducting preliminary site assessments.

Understanding Zoning and Development Controls

Before promoting a property's development potential, familiarise yourself with these crucial factors:

Minimum Lot Requirements

• Dual occupancies typically require larger lots than secondary dwellings
• Check the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) for minimum lot sizes
• Remember that corner lots often have different requirements and may offer more flexibility

Floor Space Ratio (FSR) and Site Coverage

• Calculate the maximum buildable area based on the lot size
• Consider existing structures when determining remaining FSR
• Factor in Council-specific site coverage limitations
• Remember that setbacks and landscaping requirements will impact the developable area

Site Characteristics That Matter

Natural Features

Property features can significantly impact development potential:

• Slope analysis: Steep sites may require expensive engineering solutions
• Tree preservation: Significant trees can limit development options
• Natural watercourses: These often come with additional setback requirements
• Solar access: Orientation affects design options and compliance

Infrastructure Considerations

Look for these key infrastructure elements:

• Sewer connection points and their locations
• Electrical capacity for additional dwellings
• Stormwater management opportunities
• Existing easements that might restrict development

Access and Parking Requirements

Vehicle Access

Critical considerations include:

• Driveway width requirements for dual occupancies
• Turning circle requirements for longer driveways
• Street frontage requirements for separate driveways
• Impact of street trees on driveway locations

Parking Solutions

Different councils have varying requirements:

• Number of parking spaces required per dwelling
• Garage setback requirements
• Options for tandem parking arrangements
• Visitor parking requirements

Common Deal-Breakers to Watch For

Heritage Considerations

• Check whether the property is heritage-listed
• Look for heritage conservation area restrictions
• Consider impact on neighbouring heritage items

Bushfire Prone Land

• Identify bushfire risk levels
• Understand additional construction requirements
• Factor in asset protection zones

Pro Tips for Agents

Due Diligence

• Always check the Section 10.7 Planning Certificate
• Review recent development applications in the area
• Recommend Pre-DA meeting
• Keep records of your preliminary assessments

Client Communication

• Clearly document any development constraints identified
• Recommend professional feasibility studies when appropriate
• Maintain relationships with local planners and developers
• Stay updated on local planning changes

Adding Value Through Knowledge

Understanding these factors allows you to:

• Identify high-potential properties quickly
• Provide more accurate initial assessments
• Save clients time and money on unfeasible properties
• Build your reputation as a development-savvy agent

Remember, while this checklist provides a solid foundation for initial site assessments, always recommend that clients seek professional planning advice before making development-based purchasing decisions.

Next Steps

Consider creating a simple preliminary assessment template for your own use, incorporating these key points. This will help you standardize your approach and ensure you don't miss critical factors when evaluating properties for development potential.

With practice, you'll develop an eye for properties with genuine development potential, making you an invaluable resource for developers and investors in your market.

RealPlan members can rapidly assess the potential for Granny Flats, Duplexes and Townhouses saving countless hours and thousands of dollars on their own research. Having expert guidance early can make a dramatic difference in the direction and speed of your development goals.