How it works
For a detailed explanation of how this residential construction cost calculator works read this article: 'Estimating building costs'.
If you already have detailed construction plans we recommend you get accurate quotes from local builders.
In addition, if you are thinking of renovating, and do not want to over-capitalise, we suggest you find out what your house is worth now, and what it will be worth after the improvements are completed, and perhaps get advice on what improvements add the most value.
Step 1: Initialise the calculator
Select project type
Project definitions
- New house: A completely new dwelling.
- Renovation: Fixing up an existing house. Can include additions.
- Addition/Extension: Adding new spaces to an existing house. Requires roof extensions and wall removals.
- Separate pavilion: The creation of a separate building that may or may not be joined to the existing house with a covered walkway or something similar; e.g. a granny flat.
Step 2: Select site condition
Definitions
- Excellent: Flat level block of land with no drainage issues.
- Good: Slightly sloping block. Minor drainage issues.
- Difficult: Steep block. Block with drainage issues. Bushfire zone.
Step 3: Quality of finishes
Definitions
- Basic: By selecting this option you are stating that you will be buying items such as bathroom & kitchen fittings, door hardware, et cetera, where cost is of higher concern than quality or style.
- Standard: Selecting 'standard' states that quality is as important as cost, but style is less important than either.
- Luxury: Quality and style are more important than price.
Step 4: Per-square-metre costs
Based on the choices you made above we have set some average per-square-metre costs for you below. For more accurate values refer to BMT's construction cost table or contact a few local builders or residential architects.
|
Internal spaces: |
per m2 |
|
Decks, verandahs & patios: |
per m2 |
|
Garages: |
per m2 |
Step 5: Enter size of the following spaces
If you selected 'new house' the values below have been pre-set for a small 3 bedroom, open plan house.
Change the areas shown below to suit your requirements.
m2 |
master bedroom |
m2 |
|
m2 |
ensuite bathroom |
m2 |
|
2nd toilet/bathroom |
m2 |
walk-in robe |
m2 |
lounge area |
m2 |
bedroom 2 |
m2 |
office/study |
m2 |
bedroom 3 |
m2 |
rumpus area |
m2 |
bedroom 4 |
m2 |
dining area |
m2 |
laundry |
m2 |
garage |
m2 |
decks, patios & verandahs |
m2 |
indoor circulation |
% |
e.g. hallways, stairs, entrance |
|
| Other bedrooms | X | m2 | |
| Other bathrooms | X | m2 | |
| Other indoor areas | X | m2 |
Step 6: Get an approximate cost
Click this button to calculate/update the estimate below.
Total estimated cost: $
Step 7: Get 3 quotes for an accurate cost
Don't waste time doing the ring around - get 3 local building professionals to give you a quote. It's obligation free.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q. How accurate is your calculator?
A. Our calculator gives reasonable initial estimates, ie. before there are detailed plans. Experienced builders who use our calculator have told us they can get to within 10% of the final cost - so the better your research for reasonable per-square-metre costs, the more accurate our calculator will be. For reasonable per-square-metre costs in Australia use BMT's construction cost table. If you have not already done so read our article about Building Cost Estimates for more information.
Q. Where can I get cost data?
A. For reasonable per-square-metre costs for your local area refer to BMT's construction cost table or contact a few local builders or residential architects.
Q. Per-square-metre why do renovations, extensions & additions cost more?
A. There is a large difference between the per-square-metre cost of a new house and the per-square-metre cost of a renovation, extension or addition because there are usually unforeseen structural issues; e.g. plumbing & electrical problems, termite damage, etc. In addition there can be site-access issues, especially if the owners are still living in the house.
Q. What is circulation?
A. Circulation refers to hallways, entrances and stairways. Use 10% for a basic no-frills house. Use 20% - 25% if you want your house to feel spacious.
Q. How will my non-standard features such as high ceilings affect the cost?
A. Hard to say. The best you can do before detailed house plans are drawn up is increase the per-square-metre rates used by the calculator. The calculator has an option called 'Quality of finish' which allows you to select 'basic', 'standard' or 'luxury'. Selecting standard increases the per-square-metre rate by $300. Selection 'luxury' increases the rate by $600.
Q. Does the calculator's estimate include GST?
A. Yes. The estimate given is intended to include GST.
Video: How to keep construction costs down
Six essential tips you need to know. Read the article.