RETAINING WALLS

Retaining Walls

A retaining wall is a structure that supports soil where soil is not self-supported and can be used to create level areas on your property.

You might think that a residential retaining wall is a simple structure made from timber, blocks or stone, however local council regulations which outline the engineering required show that retaining walls are not so simple.

Council Regulations 

Local councils have guidelines in place to ensure that retaining walls on your property are built to correct standards.

·      Do you know what your local council regulations are regarding retaining walls?

·      Do you know if your retaining wall can be submitted to council as a complying development? Or does the wall require full development consent? 

Generally, the height and location of the proposed retaining wall will determine if you require council approval. If the proposed retaining wall is on or near a building or the boundary of your property you may need to get council permission (regardless of its height).

How Do I Gain Council Approval?

1.    Have a structural engineer prepare a plan showing the location of the wall, and a section detail of how the proposed wall is to be built.

2.    Once the engineer’s plan is prepared it needs to be submitted together with a completed development application and any other supporting documentation requested by council.

3.    When the development application is obtained a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) needs to be appointed. This person may be a Council certifier or an independent certifier

The Principal Certifying Authority is required to issue a construction certificate allowing the work to commence. The PCA will complete nominated inspections throughout the build and will supply an Occupation Certificate if all works are completed in accordance with engineer’s plan.

Who Can Build Your Retaining Wall?

A licensed structural landscaper is essential to the building of your retaining wall. A licensed structural landscaper will have all insurances in place. 

Any building work over $20,000 requires Home Building Compensation Insurance. The Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) provides a safety net for homeowners in NSW, if faced with incomplete and defective building work carried out by a builder or tradesperson.

Licensed contractors that take on residential work over $20,000 require insurance cover through HBCF. They must obtain this cover before starting work or accepting any money under the contract, including the deposit.

Don't know where to start? We Can Help!

If your retaining wall requires council approval we can assist with:

·       designing retaining wall layout

·       suggesting types of retaining walls and materials to use, based on site conditions and budgets,

·       engaging a structural engineer,

·       gaining council approvals,

·       engaging certifiers and contractors to provide quotes.

Let us take the stress out of your retaining wall project and get the job done right the first time.