Why are conventional Australian houses significantly less efficient, and why do they end up costing so much nore than Passive Houses?
Three words…minimum building code! More specifically, insufficient insulation detailing, vapour barriers that are inevitably punctured, uncontrolled thermal bridging, poor quality windows (80% of the market is single glazed!) and dated construction techniques. To summarise, poor building envelopes! To make up for these subpar practices, air-conditioners and heaters are required to make up for all of that energy loss which ends up costing homeowners each and every year.
Do I need professional assistance to achieve a Passive House?
Yes. In order to achieve the Passive House standard, it is vital that the building design is tested and verified using the specialist PHPP software. Our Passive House Consultant is a valuable member of our team to ensure Passive House Certification.
What is a ‘thermal bridge’?
Thermal bridges are the points at which conventional housing design lose energy. They are often unaccounted weak points in the building fabric resulting in high local discomfort, moisture and mold while providing a highway for energy loss. Passive House design specifically addresses thermal bridges to maximize energy efficiency unlike any other standard.
Can I be sure that my Passive House will ‘work’?
Absolutely. But it is essential that your project has been properly designed in PHPP, supported by a Certified Passive House Designer or Certifier and then well-executed on-site by Certified Passive House Tradespersons. Vivo Homes are certified Passive House Builders and we engage a Passive House Designer/ Consultant and Certifier to ensure the standard is met.
What’s it like to live in a Passive House?
A Passive House construction ensures a long, durable building life, that requires light-filled spaces and high levels of comfort. Combined with extraordinary low heating/cooling bills and excellent indoor air quality, Passive House buildings also provide a major opportunity to reduce your carbon footprint. It is very quiet too, due to the well-sealed building envelope.
Do you need a special site type if considering building a Passive House?
No, generally not. Of course, it is ideal to be able to design the building to face north, and to avoid over-shadowing by coniferous trees or local buildings. However, if these conditions do not exist on your site, then don’t worry. Allowances can be made, and tested in the PHPP software, for any shortfall in terms of ideal orientation leading to reduced solar gain.
new homes
When can I move into my new home?
Once the Occupation Certificate is issued and the final payment is made, we will present you with a key to your new home.
When do I buy home insurance for my new home?
We recommend that as soon as you know that you will receive your Occupation Certificate you arrange home insurance. Vivo Homes has a list of preferred partners whom we are happy to recommend.
What home builder is the best?
A residential home builder is best to build a new home. Residential builders understand that your home is personal and will take the time to plan the materials and colours with you. Your project will be prepared in a way which allows the construction team to build accurately and efficiently.
How do I find a good home builder?
It’s important to look at some of the past projects that have been completed by the builder. Look at the quality of the finishes. Are the walls straight? Is the skirting straight? Are there any gaps anywhere? Also, talk to their previous clients to get a real understanding of their experience.
How long is a home builder liable?
In NSW a builder is liable for 6 years.
duplexes
Do you pay strata on a duplex?
This depends on the title structure. If the duplex is ‘Torrens Titled’, then the answer is no as it is considered freehold property. If the duplex is ‘Strata Titled’, then yes strata laws will apply.
Who owns the land in a duplex?
This depends on title structure. If Torrens or Strata Titled, each dwelling may be purchased individually and the land belongs to the relative owner. If both dwellings are on a single title, then the owner of the land owns both dwellings. The owner can rent out both sides, live in one, rent out the other, but if the owner decides to sell then both dwellings will be sold together.
Do duplexes appreciate?
Yes! Duplexes should be viewed in the same way houses are. Demand for this style of housing will cause the market to increase over time. The building itself however depreciates over time. As an investor, depreciation can be claimed along the way. For further information about depreciation, we suggest you reach out to your accountant.
What is a duplex?
A duplex is a home that is attached to another home sharing a common wall in a semi-detached style. Both face the street and can be either single or double storey. They can be designed to be identical in layout and style or varied to create individuality.
Granny Flats
What is the minimum block size required to build a granny flat?
Your block must be a minimum of 450m2 and 12m wide
How can I find out if my property is suitable?
Please call us to discuss your property or simply complete the contact form and be sure to include your property address. We can search your property and complete a desktop assessment. The assessment will only take 10 minutes to complete.
Do I have to be home for a site inspection?
No. We only need approx 20mins to assess your property. Access is only required to the back yard, front, and sides of the house. Internal access is not required.
How long is the Design & Approval Process?
Design & Approval takes approx 6 weeks for a standard granny flat on a standard block of land. If the land is in a bushfire zone, flood zone, mine subsidence area etc, then additional time will be required. Also, if a custom design is required or additional changes, then of course this will take more time.
What if I don’t like any of your designs or if I can’t find a design to suit my block?
In this case we can custom design for you.
Can I add a carport, garage or alfresco area to my granny flat?
Yes, provided that the property meets compliance requirements for total floor area, site coverage and landscaping.
Can electricity, gas and water be separately metered?
Yes
I have tenants in the main house. How will they be affected?
Firstly, you must inform your tenants of your wishes to build a granny flat. Please talk to your managing agent about this process. If a lease in currently in place, you may have to wait until it expires.
Communication between our team, the owners, tenants and agents is important during the build process. The project will be well planned prior to construction to ensure enough notice is given to tenants in preparation for the build. A construction start date and expectations will be advised. During the build period, communication with your tenants will continue to ensure a smooth process.
renovations
What is the liability of the owner builder for renovation in NSW?
An owner builder carries the same liabilities as builders in NSW. An owner builder cannot carry out a renovation. Only single dwelling house, secondary dwellings and in special circumstances dual occupancy are permitted.
How do I find a builder for home renovations?
It’s important to look at some of the past renovation projects that have been completed by the builder. Look at the quality of the finishes. Are the walls straight? Is the skirting straight? Are there any gaps anywhere? Also, talk to their previous clients to get a real understanding of their experience.
Can a builder draw up plans for a home renovation?
A building company who has a building designer on staff or works closely with a building designer can coordinate plans and approval for you.
How do I choose a builder for a renovation?
It’s important to look at some of the past renovation projects that have been completed by the builder. Look at the quality of the finishes. Are the walls straight? Is the skirting straight? Are there any gaps anywhere? Also, talk to their previous clients to get a real understanding of their experience.
How do I submit renovation ideas to a builder?
Get out your note pad and sketch your ideas. It doesn’t matter if they’re rough or messy. Just get your ideas down on paper and hand it over. With Vivo Homes – you dream it, we will build it!
