Building designers are similar, but not the same. In Queensland, a licensed building designer can undertake residential, commercial and unit development work. Lockhart is licensed through the Queensland Building & Construction Commission.

Lockhart provides a no-obligation quote for each project. Initial new-home meetings are $275 + GST. Renovation and extension site meetings generally range from $330 to $440 + GST, with travel added outside Toowoomba.

Concept or preliminary plans are generally supplied within 15–20 business days. More complex projects can vary, and your building designer will confirm timing when you accept the quote.

Yes. The building-design team stays current with the national, state and local government requirements that affect each project.

The design is refined with you. If the first concept does not meet the brief, the team works through revisions to achieve the right outcome.

Yes. Lockhart can provide 3D renders and online walkthroughs so you can understand the proposed design before it is built.

Once all supporting documentation is available, approval generally takes up to four weeks. Town planning or additional council applications can extend that timeframe.

No. Your decision notice will state how long the approval remains current, commonly between 12 and 24 months.

Yes. Lockhart works with a trusted range of small and medium local builders and can suggest a team suited to your project.

An energy-efficiency assessment is required for building approval. A certified assessor uses the home design to establish heating and cooling demand and demonstrate compliance with the National Construction Code.

Properties identified in a bushfire overlay may require a hazard assessment and BAL rating. Lockhart can recommend a local bushfire assessor.

A soil test gives the structural engineer the information needed to design footings and foundations. Tests are generally considered current for about two years.

A contour or topographical survey records the levels and constraints of the land so the designer and builder can plan and cost the project accurately.

Yes. Your building designer develops the home and its timber structural requirements; engineers design slabs, footings, steelwork and specialist bracing.