How Much Do Site Works Cost? [2024]

When you're looking for land to build on, you might notice a big difference in prices. The cheaper property may be on a relatively steep slope and have some scrub and boulders that will have to be removed, while the other is on a flat block of land and costs more. The cheaper block may be tempting, but this will involve higher site works costs to prepare it for construction.

Before you make your decision, it's a good idea to find out what affects site work costs so you can see if you're really making a saving. Read this guide to find out:

• What are site works?
• How much do site works cost?
• What causes site costs to increase?
• How to save on building site costs
• Getting quotes from builders

What are site works?

Site works are all the work it takes to prepare a site for building. Sometimes, site works can be relatively minor and inexpensive, but at other times, they can involve the use of heavy equipment, including tractors, excavators and even cranes.

If trees need to be removed, licensed tree fellers may be needed. When the land is cleared, you may also need to have retaining walls built. The more work is needed, the more you'll have to pay in building site costs before you can even start to build.

How much do site works cost?

Site work costs vary for each project. The cost of site preparation can range from $5,000 to $70,000, depending on factors such as the size and terrain of your block of land. Prices start from around:

• $5,000 for a small, flat block in a developed area
• $12,000 for a medium- sized, relatively flat surface
• $25,000 for a larger site or to build on a sloping block

If you need extensive retaining walls built, this can be another $25,000.

Besides preparing the land, there could be many other fixed and variable costs you need to account for. Depending on the project, these may include:

• Building permits and licenses
• Soil tests and surveys
• Utility connections
• Termite protection
• Security guards, fencing or surveillance

It can be difficult to get firm quotes for site works. Even after a builder has inspected your property, the best they will be able to do is explain to you what site works are needed and approximately how much they will cost based on the cost of similar jobs they've done.

What causes site costs to increase?

Different builders will set their own costs for site works and there are many variables that can add to the cost of site works considerably. These can include:

•  Location – site costs will be higher if you're building in a more remote area, as materials will need to be transported and utilities may not be present.
• Terrain – site costs for a sloping block or uneven or hilly terrain will be higher than for a flat block, as will other construction costs. You may also need to have rocks, trees or existing buildings removed from the site or to have retaining walls built.
• Soil and foundation – sandy soil is easier to build on than soil which contains traces of clay, limestone or peat. These will require more preparation work to ensure the stability of the site. Developing above an underground sewer or other structure will also involve extra work.
• Size and layout – a site cost estimate for a larger block will naturally be higher than a smaller block. The layout and number of storeys you're planning to build will also affect how much site work is needed.
• Materials – if you're planning to build with concrete or other heavy materials, these will require more site work than lighter materials such as wood. Materials will also be a significant factor in building costs.

It's typical for builders to allow a margin of up to $5,000 in their estimates, which are likely to be on the higher side, though some offer fixed costs. This means that one project valued at $15,000 could cost as low as $10,000 or as much as $20,000 on another.

Read more: Free pre-purchase building inspection checklist

How to save on building site costs

If you want to keep the cost of site works low, a building consultant may be able to help you choose a house design or building materials that will make building on the site more affordable, reducing the need for site works.

For example, on a steeply sloping block, a pole home can be far less expensive to build than a house that requires extensive excavation and other site works.

You may also choose not to level certain areas at the cost of losing some useable outdoor space.

Getting quotes from builders

When you're getting estimates for site work costs, keep in mind that some builders don't disclose all their prices, so they may give you an intentionally low estimate to look more competitive. To get a fairer idea of how much your site works will cost, get quotes from 3 builders near you.

There's no one-size-fits-all cost for site works, and builders can charge very different rates, but you should get an idea of the average when you get quotes from several companies. If they are all fairly similar, you'll have a reasonable assurance that there won't be any cost blow-outs.

The real cost of your site works can only be determined when a builder conducts a thorough assessment of your site.

*Cost and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.