Step-by-Step Custom Home Build Checklist

October 24, 2025

Building your own custom home in Australia is exciting, but it can sometimes feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate. From design choices and council approvals to budgets and timelines, there are plenty of moving parts that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why having a clear checklist is important.

We’ll guide you through the key steps in building a custom home checklist. Whether it is your first build or an upgrade to suit your lifestyle, our team helps you stay organised and confident right through to the final handover.

Building a Custom Home Checklist

Think of a custom home checklist as your blueprint for staying organised. It turns the chaos of construction into a sequence of manageable steps. Without a checklist, you could face delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress.

A detailed custom home build checklist ensures a smooth, cost-effective and worry-free build. It’s not just for first-time owners either. Even seasoned homeowners upgrading to a custom space benefit from a structured approach that keeps the build on track and aligned with their vision.

Why a Custom Home Checklist Is Necessary

A custom home build involves many steps and important details can be overlooked. A checklist keeps everything organised, under budget and stress-free.

Keeps the project on track

Schedules matter. A custom home build checklist helps each stage run on time and prevents unnecessary delays.

Helps manage budget

Surprise expenses can sting. A checklist ensures every cost is covered before construction begins.

Improves communication with the builder

Misunderstandings can slow down progress. A checklist keeps you and your builder working from the same page at every stage.

Reduces stress

Uncertainty creates pressure during a build. A custom home checklist provides clarity about what’s happening now and what’s next.

Avoids missing key steps

It’s easy to overlook details when there’s so much going on. A checklist makes sure approvals, inspections and finishes are never forgotten.

Simplifies decision-making

Too many options can feel overwhelming. A checklist helps you focus on the priorities that matter most.

Boosts quality control

Every stage of the build should be reviewed with care. A checklist reminds you to review and approve work before moving forward.

Supports long-term satisfaction

Your dream home should meet your expectations. A checklist helps ensure the finished result matches your original vision.

Here's Your Custom Home Build Checklist

A custom home is a big project, but the right custom home checklist keeps everything clear and organised. Each stage builds on the last, helping you reach move-in day without unnecessary stress.

Secure Financing

Confirm your budget before you start any planning. Home loan approval gives you confidence and sets clear limits for the build.

Secure the Lot

Choose a block that works with your design and council requirements. Check soil, slope and location to avoid hidden costs later.

Planning and Designs

Work with an architect or designer who listens to your needs. Tailored plans will match your lifestyle and speed up approvals.

Plotting the Timeline

Work with your builder to set a clear and realistic schedule. Include approvals, weather and material lead times so the project runs smoothly.

Find the Right Builder

Pick a builder with proven experience in custom homes. A good track record saves you time, money and stress.

Material Selection

Select materials that suit your design and budget. Quality choices pay off in both durability and style.

Site Preparation

The block must be cleared and levelled before construction begins. This step ensures a stable base for your build.

Foundation and Framing

Pour the slab or footings, then erect the frame. This is when your home starts to take visible shape.

Building the Exterior

Install roofing, cladding and external walls. The lock-up stage protects the interior from the weather.

Installation of Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC

Plumbing, wiring and air systems are fitted before walls close in. Doing it now prevents costly rework later.

Adding Insulation

Insulation improves comfort and cuts energy costs. It helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Drywall and Paint

Internal walls are built and plastered. Painting begins to add character and finish to your home.

Styling the Interior

Cabinets, tiles, floors and lights are installed. This stage transforms empty spaces into functional rooms.

Personalising Bedrooms and Bathrooms

Final touches include vanities, wardrobes and fittings. Each space is customised to suit daily living.

The Extras

Driveways, fencing and landscaping finish the job. Outdoor areas are shaped to match your lifestyle.

Final Walkthrough and Cleanup

Inspect the build with your builder and note any fixes. Cleanup prepares the house for handover.

Moving In

The keys are handed over and the home is yours. Enjoy the results of planning and patience.

For a Smooth Custom Home Build, Contact Prestige Homes and Granny Flats!

Building a new home is exciting and the journey becomes far smoother when you have the right team supporting you. The right builder helps you avoid stress and keeps every stage on track.

Prestige Homes and Granny Flats is a leading choice in WA for custom home builds and granny flats. We are recognised for dependable service, open communication and efficient project timelines that achieve outstanding results.

Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to discuss building a custom home checklist, arrange a consultation or request a detailed quote for your project plans.

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What Is a Granny Flat? Full Guide for Australian Homeowners

October 27, 2025

Granny flats are no longer just for grandparents. Across Australia, they’re being built as rental units, guest accommodation, or smart add-ons for multigenerational families. Climbing property prices and limited housing supply have made granny flats an attractive option for homeowners seeking flexibility and extra income. Before you build, there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. Before you start asking what granny flats are and how to build one, remember there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. What are Granny Flats? So what is a granny flat? The answer is simple. It’s a small, self-contained home built on the same block as a main residence. Think of it as a compact version of a regular house, usually including a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and one or two bedrooms. Most states cap their size at around 60 m², though exact limits vary. In Queensland, they’re often called “secondary dwellings,” while in Victoria, you’ll hear “dependent person’s unit.” No matter the name, the idea is the same: extra living space with independence built in. What Are Granny Flats Called in Perth? Across Perth and the wider WA region, granny flats are formally classified as “ancillary dwellings” under local council planning regulations. They’re permitted on most residential-zoned blocks that meet the minimum land size, with a maximum floor area of up to 70 m². A major difference in WA is who can occupy them. Since 2015, Perth’s rules have allowed ancillary dwellings to be rented to non-family members, giving homeowners more flexibility for rental income or family use. Councils such as the City of Perth, City of Stirling, and City of Joondalup apply these state planning guidelines, though it’s always worth checking your local council’s requirements before starting. In Perth, granny flats can take several forms. They may be built as a detached unit, joined to the main house, or created by converting existing structures like garages. This flexibility makes them an appealing way to add space, boost property value, or create rental income without leaving your current suburb. What Is Granny Flat: Legal and Planning Rules You Need to Know To fully understand what granny flats are, you also need to follow council regulations that vary from state to state. Zoning and Land Use Your block must be in the correct residential zone to allow an ancillary dwelling. Perth councils set these rules, so it’s important to confirm land use requirements before drawing up plans. Size Limits & Design In most parts of Australia, granny flats are limited to 60 m². In Perth and wider WA, ancillary dwellings can be up to 70 m², provided they meet council design codes for height, setbacks, and appearance. Approval Processes Some states require both planning and building permits, while others fast-track approval if certain criteria are met. In WA, approvals generally move faster when plans follow the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . Rental & Occupancy Rules Unlike some states, Perth homeowners can lease ancillary dwellings to non-family members. Since the 2015 policy change, this flexibility has allowed granny flats to serve as either rental income properties or extra family space.