If you’re looking at purchasing a property with a large land size in Australia, you may have come across the term “STCA,” – but what does it mean?
STCA, or “Subject to Council Approval,” is generally used when there is potential for subdivision of the land in question. As such, STCA properties can often be attractive to developers and investors looking to purchase property with an eye to the future.
This article will be your ultimate guide with all the details, including STCA meaning and what happens if you build without council approval. So, keep reading!
What is STCA?
STCA is a term that shows up on real estate listings to indicate the potential for subdivision or multi-unit development. The term “STCA” stands for “Subject To Council Approval.” In simpler words, STCA meaning is that the landowner will need to apply for a planning permit from the local council to proceed with any development on the property.
The advantage of listing a property as STCA is that it lets potential buyers know there is the potential to increase the property’s value through subdivision or development.
If you’re looking for a property with investment potential, then STCA is definitely something to keep an eye out for.
What happens if you build without council approval?
If you opt to build without council approval, be aware that you may be asked to demolish or remove the structure. You may also be fined, along with the builder.
It’s important to note that this may not happen right away. Sometimes, it can take the council a while to find out about illegal buildings. But when they do, you’ll definitely hear from them.
Thus, it’s always best to get your building approved before starting construction. But if it’s already built without approvals, you can still get certification and approvals post-build. It will take more cost, time, and effort, but some companies can help you through the process. So, don’t despair, as there’s still hope even if you’ve made a mistake.
What is needed for council approval?
After you’re aware of the STCA meaning, you must be hoping to get a development approved by your local council. However, there are a few key things you’ll need to take into account.
First, give the council a call and discuss your plans in detail. They’ll be able to tell about further steps and what kind of application you’ll need to make.
Second, get a PropertEASE report done on the property in question. This will help you understand what sort of development is realistically possible on the site and whether or not the agent’s claims subject to council approval clause are accurate or not.
Finally, whether it is searching for houses for sale in Point Cook or getting council approval in your city, talk to a professional town planner. They can give you more specific advice about your situation and questions like how much does council approval cost.
How long does it take for council to approve house plans?
It can take up to 45 business days for the council to approve house plans. This time frame may be longer if the council makes an information request (up to 3 months) and does not include the time for your town planner to prepare the lodgement documentation.
Moreover, it is essential to note that this is just an estimate and that each council may have different processing times. If you are still unsure, it is always good to check with your local council.
Why should you not rely on a real estate agent for STCA approval?
While it may appear to be a smart idea to rely on a real estate agent for STCA approval, there are various reasons why this is not recommended, just like the Melbourne peak traffic hours.
For one, agents are primarily motivated by finding the best possible price for their property owner client. In addition, agents may also take a cut from the final deal made on the property. So, even if you can secure STCA approval with their help, you may end up paying more than you would otherwise.
It’s ultimately better to work directly with the local council when trying to obtain STCA approval. This way, you can ensure that all the necessary paperwork is in order and that you’re getting the best possible deal.
Do I need council approval to change windows?
You may not need a permit for swimming in Melbourne, but you surely need one to replace your windows, depending on the type of repair or replacement you’re doing. If you’re simply replacing an existing window with a new one that’s the same size and style, it’s generally considered a repair and doesn’t require a permit.
However, changing the size or style of the window is considered a structural alteration and will require a building permit. Keep in mind that removing a window will also affect the building’s structure and will require a permit.
So, just knowing the STCA meaning may not be enough if you’re planning on any type of change to your windows, be sure to check with your local council first to see if you need approval.
Do I need council approval to replace my roof?
There’s no denying that a new roof can be a costly investment. But if you’re wondering whether you need council approval or not to replace your roof, the answer isn’t always so clear-cut.
If you’re seeking repairs, you may not need a planning permit for your re-roofing. The Australian government allows repairs without permits, with no more than 20% of the roof to be repaired. So if your repair falls within this limit, you can save yourself the hassle of obtaining approval.
However, if you’re planning to replace your entire roof, then it’s best to seek approval from your local council before proceeding. This way, you can avoid any potential problems down the road.
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