We understand that Building terminology can be a whole new language, so we want to ensure our clients have an understanding and provide a simple explanation of some of the more common building terms to help you better understand your new home build.

Balustrade - Is a railing supported by balusters, especially one forming an ornamental parapet to a balcony, bridge, or terrace.

Bulk Head - Is a box-like housing installed onto a ceiling to provide extra space for wiring, piping, and ductwork.

Building pegout - before a new house can be built, offset marks are placed in the ground so the builder knows where to place the structure.

Cut & Fill - Is the method often used to provide a level area on a sloping site, where part of the sloping surface is cut away and used to provide fill on the portion of the slope immediately below it.

CDC - A Complying Development Certificate, or CDC, is a combined planning and construction approval that can cover many developments depending on local planning regulations. This pathway is a fast-tracked approval that does not require a Development Application at your local Council.

Drop edge Beam - A drop edge beam is where the edge of a concrete slab runs vertically down to the ground to retain fill underneath the home.

Frontage - Is how wide your land is along the front boundary and depth is how far your land goes back. Multiply the two and you get the overall square meterage of your block. E.g. 15m x 30m = 450m2

Parapet - a low protective wall along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony

PCA - A Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) is a licensed professional accredited by relevant government building authorities. The PCA oversees the management of a development consent from start to finish, conducts inspections at each construction stage, and ensures compliance with approved plans, specifications, and regulations.

Sarking - Boarding or building felt fixed over the rafters of a roof before the tiles or slates are added.

Sewer pegout - A Service Protection Report - or more commonly known as a Sewer Pegout, enables the accurate plotting of assets onto your building plans.

This will then determine if your development area is within the Zone of Influence (ZOI) and if there would be any potential for damage or stress to these pipes during construction.