What to Know Before Building in the Adelaide Hills by Rachelle Barlow
- Rachelle Barlow
- May 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 7
The Adelaide Hills is one of South Australia's most desirable regions to build in, offering rolling landscapes, charming townships, and a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. However, building in the Hills is not the same as building on a flat suburban block. If you're considering a new home in this beautiful part of the state, there are some important things to know before you begin your journey.
At Barlow Build, we’ve worked extensively throughout the Adelaide Hills, and we know what it takes to get it right. Here’s our guide to what you need to consider before you build.
What to Know Before Building in the Adelaide Hills 1. Understanding the Terrain
The biggest factor that sets the Adelaide Hills apart is the land itself. Sloping blocks are common, and while they can offer stunning views and architectural interest, and can be cheaper than other blocks, they also come with engineering, design challenges and extra costs.
Key considerations:-
Site fall: Even a modest slope can impact your build cost. Excavation, retaining walls, split-level designs, and stormwater management all need to be factored in.
Soil type: Many Hills blocks have reactive clay or rocky ground, this affects footings and foundation design.
Access: Narrow roads, steep driveways, or limited truck access can complicate deliveries and build times.
💡 Tip from Barlow Build: Choose a builder who has experience working with difficult terrain and can design a home that suits the land, not fight against it. We’ve completed many hillside projects and know how to maximise space, light, and budget.
2. Navigating Local Council Requirements
The Adelaide Hills is governed by specific development controls designed to preserve the area’s natural beauty, character, and bushfire safety. Each zone, from rural living to historic townships, comes with its own set of rules and guidelines.
Common council requirements include:-
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ratings: There are blocks that are classified as bushfire prone. This impacts everything from your choice of cladding and windows to landscaping. Block dependent there maybe the requirement to obtain a CFS report, and put in fire flighting measures such as large tanks with fire flighting equipment.
Design guidelines: Certain areas have restrictions on exterior finishes, colours, rooflines, fencing, and building height to preserve local character. Especially if you are one of the new developments, there are design guidelines to follow in order to get encumbrance approval granted (This is issued by the developer). It is recommended that you check these guidelines out BEFORE you purchase a block. People can find they end up blowing a budget when they have to meet design guidelines. Remember corner blocks may in some cases, depending on the development, want double feature facades not only on the front, but around the side as well!
Wastewater management: Not all sites are sewer connected, so septic (CWMS) or aerobic systems may be required. Don't just take the word of a real estate agent or what it says on the advert for the land. Contact the council to get the correct information if you are not sure.
Native vegetation protection: Removing trees may need council approval, especially if they're mature or habitat significant. If you are removing or trimming trees, it pays to use a knowledgeable arborist and ask council if you are unsure BEFORE purchasing the land.
✅ What we do: At Barlow Build, we liaise with the Council and engage the services of a private certifier who we have a long standing relationship with, and who works on your behalf. We ensure your design meets all requirements, and work proactively to avoid costly delays or redesigns.
3. Choosing a Local Builder Who Knows the Area
When it comes to building in the Hills, local knowledge is everything. A builder who understands the land, the council, the climate, and the community will always deliver a smoother, more personalised experience.
Here’s why it matters:
We know what works: Designing to meet energy requirements, to materials that can handle frosts, heavy rainfall, or bushfire risk, we know how to build homes that are beautiful and durable.
We’re hands on: At Barlow Build, we don’t subcontract our management. You deal directly with a qualified builder not a sales rep. Gary and Rachelle Barlow manage the build from start to finish.
We use trusted local trades: Our team is made up of skilled professionals from the region who understand the standards we expect and the site conditions they’ll face.
We’re invested: We live and work here. Our reputation is built on word of mouth, and we take pride in every home we deliver.
4. Budgeting for a Hills Build
A common mistake is underestimating the true cost of building in the Adelaide Hills. Yes, you can build a beautiful home, but it’s important to allow for:
Site works and retaining
Bushfire compliance upgrades
Custom drainage or wastewater solutions
Driveways, fencing, and landscaping for sloped or semi-rural blocks
We always provide transparent, itemised quotes so there are no nasty surprises. And where possible, we’ll offer design suggestions to keep costs controlled without compromising your vision.
5. Your Next Step: Start With a Conversation
If you’re thinking about building in Crafers, Mylor, Stirling, Aldgate, Nairne, Littlehampton, Mount Barker, or anywhere in the Adelaide Hills, your best starting point is a chat with someone who’s been there before. Speak to Rachelle to start that conversation today, and she will guide you through your project.
At Barlow Build, we offer:
Free initial consultations
Site visits and feasibility reviews
Concept design feedback
Fixed price custom quotes
Whether you’re building your forever home, an NDIS compliant residence, or restoring a heritage gem, we’re here to make it happen with honesty, quality, and care.
📞 Ready to Build in the Hills?
Start your journey with Barlow Build. A qualified, family run builder with deep roots in the Adelaide Hills. Contact us today to book your free consultation.
📍 Adelaide Hills, SA
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