Site Cost Checklist — What To Ask Your Builder
A comprehensive checklist of site cost questions to ask your builder, plus everything you need to understand about what site costs are and how to avoid blowouts.
Site costs are one of the most misunderstood and frequently underestimated parts of any new home build in Australia. Builders often downplay site costs during the sales process — only for buyers to discover a $30,000 site cost bill they weren't expecting after signing.
This checklist covers every question you should ask your builder about site costs, and every factor you should investigate before signing.
Watch out
Site costs are rarely included in a builder's "from" price. Always assume site costs are separate unless a builder explicitly confirms otherwise in writing.
Site Cost Questions to Ask Your Builder
Factors That Drive Up Site Costs
What to Get in Writing
Note
Our guides on what site costs are and site costs in South East Queensland provide detailed background on each cost type.
Typical Site Cost Ranges by Factor
| Site Factor | Typical Additional Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard flat block (base) | $10,000–$20,000 |
| Sloped block (medium) | $15,000–$35,000 |
| Sloped block (steep) | $25,000–$60,000+ |
| Reactive soil (H1/H2) | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Highly reactive soil (E class) | $8,000–$20,000 |
| Retaining walls (mid-height) | $8,000–$25,000 |
| Retaining walls (high) | $20,000–$80,000+ |
| Underground rock | $10,000–$40,000 |
| Long service connections | $5,000–$20,000 |
| BAL-29 or higher rating | $5,000–$30,000 |
* Indicative ranges only. Costs vary by region, builder, and specific site conditions. Always obtain written quotes.
Take this checklist with you:
Frequently Asked Questions
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