Knockdown-rebuild
Knockdown-rebuild (KDR): demolishing an existing house and building a new one on the same block. Common alternative to major renovation on established sites.
Ask Chalkline about this →A knockdown-rebuild (often abbreviated KDR) is the process of demolishing an existing house and constructing a new dwelling on the same block of land. It is a common alternative to major renovation, particularly on established suburban blocks where the land value significantly exceeds the value of the existing structure or where the existing dwelling cannot be cost-effectively brought up to current standards.
The process runs in two sequential phases: demolition (handled by a licensed demolition contractor) and new construction (handled by a licensed builder). Between the two phases, the site must pass an asbestos clearance inspection, have all services disconnected and capped, and be cleared to a level suitable for the new build. Approval can be via a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) for standard residential knockdowns on unconstrained sites, or a Development Application (DA) where heritage, flood, bushfire, or other constraints apply. Total timeline from engagement to practical completion of the new house is typically 18 to 36 months depending on approvals, demolition, and construction programme.
Also known as: knock down rebuild, KDR
Category: Process / residential construction
Related
See also
- Development Application (DA) (glossary)
- CDC (glossary)
- Owner-builder (glossary)
- Practical completion (glossary)
Last updated: 2026-05-10. Verified: 2026-05-10. Quarterly review for currency.