Can I Subdivide My Property?
Property ownership can lead to several problems, and one of them is subdividing your property. The legal process includes subdivision certificates from experts and their guidance with suitable approvals. Whether you can subdivide your property or not depends on the zoning rules, local regulations, the land title that the owner holds, and other factors. Diving the land is a crucial and legal procedure that needs effective professional advice and planning to ensure the path goes smooth.
However, it is crucial to obtain a strata certificate NSW when dealing with a subdivided building. The land diving or building comes under the NSW land registry service. This is how a Strata certificate is an important certificate that is required in a strata plan. So, whether you are planning to divide a land or separate the land titles, it is better to have an idea of the process, as it can save money and time.
What is included in a Property Subdivision?
Subdivision is about splitting a property into two or more parts. Each part is given a title, so that it can be used, given for leased, or sold separately. However, the subdivision of land applies to the following:
- Rural properties
- residential block of land
- Apartment projects
- Multi-unit property developments
This is how one can maximise the use of a property by means of subdivision. It further increases the value of the property. This will help you know how subdivision is a vital decision and brings in certain benefits. These are:
- Increase the Chance of Sale Property
A small and affordable property is easy to sell and attract buyers than a large investment.
- Unlock the Investment Benefits
If you split your land, it helps create multiple assets and investment options.
- Flexible Development
One can use one land while selling off the other one, as per convenience.
- Boost Property Value
With separate titles, it is easy to boost the overall property value and help one earn more from it.
- Look for Future Options
The subdivision allows for future development or investment in property construction.
So, subdivision comes with costs, such as application costs, surveying, infrastructure, and professional charges. This is how you can make the most of the subdivision of a property.
How are Subdivision Certificates Crucial?
The subdivision certificates are an essential approval, a legal document that confirms how a subdivision plan complies with the development plans and relevant needs, that are set by the local authorities. Without this certificate, your property is not legally registered with the NSW Land Registry Department. With the certificate, one cannot sell or transfer the property name or have independent titles. If you have the certificate, it means:
- You can apply with an accredited certifier
- Get details of the subdivision land from a licensed surveyor
- Ensure that the construction meets the standards of the council
- The owner has to pay an applicable fee for the property
Once the owner gets the subdivision certificate, your surveyor can register with the NSW registry services to create land titles and exercise the benefits.
Understand the Strata Certificate NSW
If the subdivision belongs to strata property, having a strata certificate in NSW is a must. It is different from a standard certificate and mainly relates to the development of duplexes or apartments. The strata certificate confirms that the property complies with updated development conditions. It also helps to find the rules for shared spaces such as gardens, lifts, stairwells and others.
However, a certifier will issue the Strata Certificate NSW if they find the construction to be perfect. Following this, the strata plan is registered, and the individual property is given a title, which is easy to use for the future.
Is it Expensive to Handle Subdividing?
Subdivision can be beneficial but involves certain costs, such as:
- Surveyor’s fees
- Application fees for the development
- Charges for utility connection
- Infrastructure contribution to the councils
- Legal expenses
- Certifier’s cost to get the subdivision certificate or the strata certification
However, the exact cost varies, depending on various factors, like the type of subdivision or the council’s needs. But one may have to face challenges with the lengthy approval time that it takes from the council. The challenges to face are:
- Infrastructural upgrades may not be as per the needs of the council
- Have to handle neighbour objections during the development process
- Compliance issues regarding the bushfire, environmental or other restrictions
Try to approach experienced experts, including certifiers, planners, legal experts or surveyors who can reduce the chance of risks and ensure smooth development of the project.
Can Certifiers Guide with Subdivision?
An expert certifier plays a crucial role in helping property owners through a hassle-free subdivision process, which includes the following:
- It helps discuss the plan for compliance and ensure that it stays updated
- Get the subdivision certificate along with the strata certificates
- Get expert advice that is tailored to a particular property type
- Discuss the plan with the surveyor, developers and councils
This is how it is easy to get in touch with the right certifier to ensure that the project is efficient and adheres to compliance.
What are the Crucial Steps Included in the Subdivision Process?
The simple steps of the subdivision are applicable in NSW and include the following steps:
- Effective Planning
Have an effective plan with a certifier who has updated knowledge on the subdivision rule on a property. It is better to hire a professional advisor or licensed surveyor, who can help with a detailed plan and updated advice.
- Development Consent
It is essential to lodge a development application with the local council. There are cases when the subdivision needs a complying development certificate.
- Check with Compliance
It is crucial to ensure compliance in accessing roads, installing infrastructure, and checking the service connections effectively.
- Application for Subdivision Certificate
You have to submit the subdivision plan to an expert certifier and pay the right fees.
- Registration for the NSW Services
Once the certificate is approved, you can plan to get the official registration for the property. Here, new titles are created for every lot. This is how a complete subdivision is prepared.
Conclusion
So, by now, you have understood whether you can subdivide a property or not. Make sure to meet the planning and legal needs to ensure that the subdivision can be done. Get in touch with a licensed professional to understand each step better and go smoothly with the right approval for the certificates.
