Building on a sloping block?

March 17, 2020

Definition: a sloping block is land with uneven levels of elevation, resulting in a slope from one end of the block to the other.

Once you start looking for a new home site, you’ll quickly find there’s a number of different block shapes, sizes and elevation – and in New South Wales, there is increasing interest in sloping blocks.
If you’re not sure about whether a sloping block is for you, we’ve outlined the benefits, below, plus some information and advice to consider before talking to a builder.

Question: What are the benefits?

1. Cost.
   Sloping blocks are usually cheaper to buy, potentially giving you more capacity to spend on building the perfect home. There are also savings to be made in capturing the breeze for natural ventilation and abundant light to reduce energy bills.
2. Style.
   Sloping blocks open the way to build a beautiful split-level home design, creating separate living areas and allowing high ceilings and more natural light.
3. Resale.
   Houses built on sloping blocks generally fetch a higher return when it’s time to sell. The design, views, natural light and elevation are all highly attractive to home buyers.

Question: What are the building options?

There are two main options for building a home on a sloping block: cut-and-fill, and a split-level home. 
Montgomery Homes NSW State Sales Manager Dean Allison says ideally people embrace the uniqueness of the slope of the land to create a split-level home.
“Split-level homes are the most elegant solution to building on a sloping block and create a connection between the land and the home. Building this way has less impact on the environment and allows for natural water drainage,” he says.
Alternately, cut-and-fill is a common solution for sloping block homes. This is when the site is excavated and the fill is used to build up areas to create flat surfaces to construct the slab. An advantage of this approach is that the home sits on the ground, allowing you to walk out straight from the house to the yard.

Question: How do I choose the right builder?

It’s important to make sure that you have an experienced builder who has worked with sloping blocks before. An experienced builder will understand all of the opportunities and challenges, and how to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible.
Tullipan Homes, General Manager – Office, Mark Tullipan says it’s also important to work with a builder with experience in dealing with councils.
“Council requirements can include cut-and-fill restrictions, regulations relating to maximum driveway grades, building height regulations and restrictions on the overall bulk and scale of new homes. Councils are now also insisting that buildings are to be designed with more character and articulation of design,” says Mark.

Question: What are some design options?

If your block is sloping downhill, utilise the upper levels for entertaining and considering installing a back deck on the upper floor to appreciate the beauty of your backyard and potential views would be best. 
If your block is sloping uphill, have the garage on the lower level of the home which would ensure a flatter driveway. On this slope, the upper floors would open the potential for beautiful views right from your bedroom. 
If your land slopes sideways, consider having the garage on the lower floor and the main entertaining areas, like your kitchen on the mid floor to maximise practicality. 

Building on sloping blocks can be highly rewarding and can allow you to build a beautiful home like no other. At HomeWorld display villages, the builders know more than just how to build great houses, they can also help in every aspect of building your dream home, so make sure you ask any questions while you visit. 

Feature image – Montgomery Homes Riviera on Display at HomeWorld Warnervale