ODA Homes · Melbourne residential building
Multi-unit Developments
Melbourne
Planning two or more homes on one block? ODA Homes welcomes enquiries about multi-unit developments in Melbourne, from dual occupancy proposals to small townhouse projects. Share your site address and any drawings, and we can discuss the building scope and next steps.
More than one home, with a plan for each
Adding dwellings changes how a block needs to function. Each home needs a useful layout, natural light and outdoor space. Access, privacy and services need attention before construction starts.
Whether you plan to live in one home, keep the properties or sell, the design and building scope should reflect that purpose.
Dual occupancy
Explore a proposal for two homes on one site. Their position, access and relationship to neighbouring properties will shape the design.
Townhouse developments
Consider how several homes can fit together while retaining clear entries, practical floor plans and usable private space.
An existing home and a new dwelling
Where permitted, retaining a home and adding another calls for careful checks of access, existing services and the condition of what stays.
Check the block before committing to the build
A large block does not automatically support more homes. Your planner and designer need to test the proposal against the controls and conditions that apply to that address.
- Planning and title: zoning, overlays, easements, covenants and any existing permit conditions.
- Site conditions: dimensions, slope, soil information, trees and neighbouring buildings.
- Access and servicing: driveways, parking, stormwater and utility connections.
- How the homes work: daylight, privacy, storage, waste collection and outdoor areas.
- Construction scope: demolition, site access, specifications and work required outside the dwellings.
Victorian planning pathways depend on the proposal and site. The Townhouse and Low-Rise Code is relevant to many low-rise multi-dwelling proposals. Confirm the current requirements with your planner and council; a building permit is a separate matter.
Bring your plans into the building conversation
If you already have drawings, we can use them to discuss the proposed construction. The more complete the documentation, the easier it is to identify what belongs in the building scope and what still needs a decision.
What to send us
Start with the property address, your goals and any drawings you have. Include planning permits and conditions, a site survey, engineering information and a schedule of finishes where available. Let us know whether you intend to retain or sell the homes, and the budget and timing you are working towards.
Consultant appointments, permit work and subdivision services need to be agreed separately. We will clarify the proposed role of ODA Homes before you commit to a building scope.
A practical path from enquiry to handover
Start with the site and your goals
We discuss the address, proposed homes and the information you already have. Early conversations help identify whether the project is ready for a construction discussion or needs further design and planning work.
Review the documents and scope
Drawings, consultant reports and permit conditions inform the proposed building work. Clarify specifications, site works and exclusions so everyone is pricing the same project.
Agree the terms before work starts
The agreed contract, permits and documentation set out the scope and responsibilities. Confirm the programme, selections and how variations will be handled before construction begins.
Build, inspect and prepare for handover
Construction and required inspections follow the approved documents and agreed scope. The handover requirements should be clear, including outstanding items, relevant certificates and information for the new homes.
Understand the costs behind the floor plans
Dwelling count alone is not enough to price a development. Ground conditions, demolition, access and servicing can change the work involved before finishes are considered.
Compare proposals against the same drawings and specifications. Ask which site works, service connections and external works are included, and where an allowance still depends on further information.
Build a project budget that also accounts for consultant fees, permit costs, subdivision where relevant, finance and a contingency. Those costs may sit outside the building contract. ODA Homes does not promise a development return or an approval outcome.
If you are also considering a single dwelling, explore our new home builds. For a different accommodation model, see our rooming house building service; the requirements and intended use differ.
Multi-unit development questions
How many units can I build on my block?
There is no reliable answer from land area alone. A planner and designer need to assess the site, its controls, access and the proposed layout. Have that assessment done before relying on a dwelling count.
Do I need approved plans before contacting ODA Homes?
You can contact us while you are exploring the project. Share the address and any available plans so we can discuss the next step. Detailed pricing needs a sufficiently defined scope and supporting information.
Are planning permits, building permits and subdivision the same thing?
No. They deal with different matters and may involve separate applications and professionals. Confirm the approvals needed for your proposal with the relevant consultants and authorities.
How much does a multi-unit development cost?
A useful estimate needs drawings, specifications and site information. Demolition, ground conditions, utility work and external works can affect the budget. Ask for an itemised scope with clear allowances and exclusions.
How long will the project take?
The programme depends on design readiness, approvals, construction scope and site conditions. Discuss timing once those details are known, with approval stages and construction identified separately.
Discuss your Melbourne development with ODA Homes
Send us the property address, your proposed dwelling mix and any plans you have. We will discuss your enquiry and the information needed to take the building conversation further.
You can also view our work or learn about ODA Homes before getting in touch.