A Guide to New Home Build Inclusions in QLD

Each home build package will be entirely unique to the builder. Inclusions or specifications will be a key part of each new home build package, informing the price and timeline of the build.

Some features are considered standard inclusions, which means the features are included by default in every design and package. Outside of standard inclusions, builders may also offer add-on specifications or inclusions that add value to the property. 

What Are the Standard Inclusions of a New Home Build in QLD?

Standard inclusions for new home builds in Queensland encompass construction and design services, legal and administrative support, and the aforementioned property features.

Construction & Design Services

Building services refers to what you’re actually getting from your builder when you choose a build package. The ‘services’ will include everything from designing and planning to soil testing and foundational work before the structure of the home is built.

New home builds either have a pre-designed layout developed by the builder or a custom design tailored to the buyer’s preferences. This design phase is also included in the total cost of a new home build. 

In Queensland, home designs are also required to meet the national standard of a minimum 7-star energy rating - this requirement is managed by builders during the design stage.  

Legal & Administrative Support

Every new build must first obtain developmental approval (DA) from the local council - the legal and application process for obtaining DA will be managed by the builder.

Legal support for the build also includes builder’s insurance, which requires builders to purchase insurance that covers the cost of addressing any future defects or repair requirements of the home. This insurance is part of the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme, which provides homeowners with up to 6 years and 6 months of insurance coverage for building issues.

Property Features

Internal and external property features commonly listed as standard inclusions in Queensland builds include:

• Rendered external walls, complete roofing, fascias, gutters, and fencing
• Walls and roof insulation
• Standard internal finishes: internal doors, painted walls and ceilings, skirtings
• Kitchen cabinetry and appliances: cooktop, oven, rangehood, benchtops
• Bathroom fittings: toilet, shower, bath, basin, mirrors, small accessories
• Electrical system: wiring, power points, switches, network ports, tested before handover
• Plumbing to the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry
• Full waterproofing for wet areas
• Flooring throughout the home
• Air-conditioning system

Non-standard Inclusions to Consider Adding to the Build

Many builders offer additional inclusions for new builds that will make the property more comfortable or convenient, and add more value to the property.  Opting for the add-on inclusions during the building phase also allows homeowners to save costs of installation later on. 

Driveway

A driveway is not always included as part of a standard build package in Queensland. In many cases, only the crossover to the street is provided, leaving the remainder for homeowners to organise after handover.

If a driveway is included in a package, the material is typically only gravel. Builders often offer exposed aggregate, coloured concrete, or plain concrete options as add-ons to enhance the home’s exterior.

Landscaping

Landscaping is another feature frequently excluded from standard inclusions. When a home is completed and ready for occupancy, the outdoor area is often given a basic level of landscaping treatment in line with council requirements.

Homeowners who plan to use the home’s outdoor space as an entertaining area or a garden can opt for landscaping packages offered by the builder. Landscaping services can include lawn design and installation, garden beds, pathway edging, and irrigation.

Interior Design Services

Interior design is usually reserved for custom home builds or premium build packages. For most pre-designed home build packages, builders typically offer only a basic level of customisation in interior design and colour schemes.

Upgrading a building package to include interior design means homeowners can get the colour schemes, cabinetry, flooring, and design elements desired, avoiding expensive changes later on. 

Luxury Appliances

Standard home build packages include a basic set of appliances. Homeowners can choose to upgrade to luxury appliance inclusions, such as higher-capacity ovens, induction cooktops, integrated dishwashers, or premium rangehoods. 

This ensures the home is equipped with high-quality appliances from day one, enhancing the convenience and comfort of moving in. 

John Munro Builder is a leading home builder in Townsville - we have a wide range of house and land packages that come fitted with standard and extra inclusions such as cooktops, kitchen appliances, taps, toilets, air conditioners, fences, interior design services, and driveways. Our home designs feature layouts that maximise indoor and outdoor spaces while offering comfort and privacy.