What is the Low-Rise Medium Density Housing Code?
This code is devoted to improving housing diversity by adapting housing supply to rapidly changing demographics. Housing affordability is said to be affected by these changes also, as it is now easier to facilitate smaller homes, on smaller lots, whilst still featuring all the amenities of a regular dwelling. The new code provides an easier route for home builders in the construction of dual-occupancies, manor houses and terraces, all of which will be approved with less hassle, through Complying Development. The 2019 Low-Rise Medium Density Housing Code is almost in effect and should be expected to arrive soon!
What does this mean for me?
If you are planning on building a dual-occupancy, manor home or terrace, then this code can allow for easier approval through Complying Development. There are limitations to this code though. The Low-Rise Medium Density Housing Code can only be used in accordance with ‘well-designed’ homes. The new initiative ensures this through only allowing applications that are accompanied by a Design Verification Statement.
Previously, dual occupancies and other housing of this kind were not able to be approved through Complying Development. This was due to the housing code not providing provisions for these types of dwellings. When this new code is in effect, we anticipate a rise in the popularity of multi-residential homes, that adapt to growing and expanding communities.
What is a Design Verification Statement and where do I get one?
A Design Verification Statement is a signed document that ensures all homes are appropriately designed, and the local character of the suburb is considered. This is a safeguard against poorly designed dwellings being executed by designers that aren’t fully qualified. Because the path of approval will be made simpler, this statement ensures that these homes have been designed with quality in mind.
The Design Verification Statement must be prepared and approved by an Architect or a Building Designer accredited by the Building Designers Association of Australia. At Atria Designs, our Director is indeed accredited by the Building Designers Association of Australia. This means that we can easily adapt to these changes and provide our clients with effortless approval of dual-occupancies, manor houses and terraces.
Atria Designs is committed to providing exceptional design and great customer service to all clients. We believe these upcoming changes in housing codes pave the way for further innovation and growth. The Atria Team look forward to what this new code may entail and are eager to continue to provide our design services in accordance with the new Low-Rise Medium Density Housing Code. If you have any questions about the code and whether your plans to build may be affected, give us a call today.
