A Christchurch construction firm claims it’s found a “game changer” that could dramatically speed up the building of homes in New Zealand.
Traditionally, new subdivisions have been built the same way, with the road going in first, followed by the homes. But now, builders in Selwyn have convinced their local council to let them do it all at once.
Kevler Development operations manager Rob Preston told 1News while at first glance, the new subdivisions look like any other, the homes are hiding a secret.
“The sewer main was put in two weeks ago. At the same time, we started the foundations for the houses. The civil work started about five weeks ago and the residential construction started about four weeks ago,” he explained.
“By sequencing it together, we’ve sped up the construction time.”
The tarmac is kept unsealed while the frames are put up on the homes.
“Basically, everything is happening at the same time. It takes a lot of managing but it can be done,” Preston said.
However, this is only possible with the Selwyn District Council’s approval, and with two building inspectors on site.
Selwyn Mayor Sam Broughton said transforming an empty paddock into a new home “can happen quickly”.
“Families can get on with the other things that are important to them that building a home becomes a foundation and basis of,” he said.
Kevler Development is hoping to finish their entire project in just seven months – less than half the time of the industry average of 19 months.
“This is a game changer for the industry – I truly believe that it is,” Preston said.
Building Industry Federation chief executive Julien Leys agreed.
“I think what we need to do following this pilot is actually look at other BCAs, Building Consent Authorities, around New Zealand – particularly Auckland – and actually look to implement this across the country. “
Preston called on other councils to follow suit.
“No complexity – it’s just a change in the process, a change in what happens on what day.”
