If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably heard the term subdivision mentioned. Whether it’s in conversations about rising property prices, developments, or unlocking value in existing land. Subdividing a property can be an attractive option for owners looking to make better use of their block, build an additional home, or explore investment opportunities.
While the idea can sound complex at first, understanding what subdivision involves and how the process works is the first step towards deciding whether it’s the right option for your property.
What Is A Subdivision?
Put simply, a subdivision is the process of dividing one piece of land into two or more separate lots, each with its own title.
This allows each lot to be sold separately, unlocking value from the original piece of land and providing additional building or investment options.
As a simple example, if an existing home has a large backyard, these homeowners may subdivide their land. They retain their existing home, but their backyard is turned into a separate property which can then be sold, or used for building another home.
Subdivision isn’t just about drawing new boundaries, it involves meeting local planning controls, zoning regulations, minimum lot size requirements and obtaining approval from relevant authorities before new titles can be issued.
How Long Does the Subdivision Process Take?
The time it takes to complete a subdivision can vary significantly depending on the type of subdivision, the location and complexity of the site, and how quickly approvals are obtained from statutory bodies.
In Western Australia, including Perth and surrounding areas, this could be anywhere from 9 to 18 months. This includes preparing plans, lodging applications, satisfying conditions, completing works on the land, and final registration of new titles. Though this process can often take longer.
Simple Subdivision Step-By-Step Overview
For a more detailed overview of subdividing your property, we recommend viewing the Roadmap and Beginners Guide from Developed Property.
While every project is unique, the subdivision process generally follows a structured pathway involving planning, approvals, construction, and final title registration. Below is an overview of the key steps involved.
1. Feasibility & Preparation
The first step is determining whether your property is suitable for subdivision. This could involve advice from a town planner to confirm zoning, minimum lot sizes, site dimensions, access requirements, and any planning constraints. It’s important to know that properties don’t always fit within the framework, and it’s possible to get subdivision approval with the assistance of experts who can justify why it should be approved.
2. WAPC Application
A thorough application is prepared and submitted to the Western Australian Planning Commssion.
3. Approval & Site Works
WAPC approval takes 90 days to be determined. If conditional approval is granted, the next stage is completing any required site works. These works are carried out to satisfy the WAPC conditions and may include:
- Service connections (water, sewer, power, NBN)
- Drainage or earthworks
- Crossovers, access ways, or fencing
- Demolition (if applicable)
The scope of works depends on the type of subdivision and the site itself.
4. Subdivision Clearance
After all required works are completed, clearances must be obtained from relevant stakeholders. This may include local councils, utility providers, and government agencies confirming that their conditions have been met.
Once all clearances are received, a final subdivision clearance (Form 1C) can be completed.
5. New Title Application & Completion
If successful, and the subdivision is cleared, the plan may be desposited with Landgate, the plan becomes IOFD.
Finally, new titles can be applied for and when approved the subdivision process is complete.
Interested In a Subdivision and Build?
While Chross Homes is not a subdivision company, we work alongside homeowners who are planning to subdivide and build a new home or investment property. We understand how subdivision decisions can affect design, access, setbacks and overall build outcomes – and can help you think ahead before construction begins.
Get in touch with Chross Homes to discuss your plans and how we can support you through the next steps.