Building and renovating: finalising the work
As you approach completion, your focus shifts to finishing well – documenting what’s been built, fixing defects, and setting yourself up for easy maintenance.
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Building and renovating: preparing and signing a contract
This is where expectations become obligations. A clear, compliant contract protects both parties and prevents most disputes. Part 3 walks you through the nuts and bolts of contracts.
Building or renovating: finding a contractor, getting quotes
This stage is about comparing like‑for‑like and choosing on value – not just price. Part 2 of our building and renovating guide inspired by the QBCC Homeowners Hub
Your guide to building or renovating
What you need to know before you start, pitfalls and how to check your builder is legit.
Achievable weekend projects – $100 budget
The first in our passive design series, try our step-by-step guide to creating a DIY Wicking Planter Bed.
Get development advice anytime, anywhere with AI tool
Building a granny flat, carport or something bigger? The new AI Development Assistant gives you instant, tailored advice. Get answers fast and start planning with confidence.
What materials are right for your build?
Your guide to choosing walls and structure that suit the Sunshine Coast climate and your budget.
Coconuts, laundry and a plastic free challenge
We get it. You’ve got the beeswax wraps, the stainless steel straws, and the reusable coffee cup. Check out these plastic-free swaps you may not have tried.
Looking into loos
Check out our off-grid toilet guide
Preparing your home and garden for winter
Find out what you need to do to prepare your home and garden for the colder months.
10 things every homeowner must know
If you're wanting to tackle more of the jobs around the house by yourself rather than calling in the trades, there are a number of ways to source that all essential 'how to' info.
Tackle that DIY project with confidence
Whether you are staring down a long list of home repairs or twiddling your thumbs itching to start a new project, check out these resources for some DIY tips and tricks to help you along the way.
How much space do you really need?
Building a New Home: What to Consider for Longevity, Sustainability, and Space Needs
Sustainable Materials Guide
A framework for selecting and specifying sustainable materials for buildings in Australia, aimed primarily at architects and other building professionals.
Sustainable Houses Guide
An introductory guide to designing energy-efficient, future-proof, healthy and comfortable homes that last a lifetime.
Pip magazine FREE ebook
Pip Magazine is a great place to find ideas, information and inspiration about living more sustainably using permaculture principles.
Tiny Homes - what you need to know
Going off-grid, living smaller, inter-generational living - if you're considering making the move to a Tiny Home check out the Australian Tiny House Podcast podcast.
Feature in Sunshine Coast Open House 2024
Would you like your building to be included in the Sunshine Coast Open House program? Expressions of interest are open for the 2024 program.
One step off the grid newsletter out now
One Step Off the Grid is a sister site to Australia’s leading renewable energy website, RenewEconomy.com.au. It is designed to provide information to consumers on new technologies, what other people are doing, and to help them through this maze of information.
Patience is key to building a second-hand house
Renovate or detonate? We'll chose the first one thanks. Hear how one couple created their forever home, without compromising their values.
Designing for multigenerational living
Multigenerational housing to suit the emerging needs of the Sunshine Coast community.
