As a future homeowner, it’s important to understand the inclusions you can expect in your new home - what’s included, what’s not included, and what you’ll need to actively request as an inclusion in your new build.

New home inclusions often vary between builders, but there are some standard inclusions that will always be offered as part of the property’s construction.

What is included in the construction of a new home?

The building work involved for a new home involves multiple stages. The standard inclusions for constructing the home will typically cover all of the necessary administrative and groundwork needed to start and finalise the project.

Architectural designs and engineered plans for the home

Builders will typically treat the design and layout of the new home as a standard inclusion for projects based on an existing design that the builder offers. Standard inclusions are also offered for house and land packages, where the design of the property is already created by the builder. Homeowners can expect some level of customisation.

Builders insurance and council fees

The cost of builders insurance and council application fees for developmental approval are typically included in the project. In Queensland, builders are required to purchase insurance to cover the potential costs of fixes and repair work that are covered under the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme, which lasts for 6 years and 6 months from the date of completion. 

Soil testing and foundational work

Part of the preparatory work for construction is soil testing to ensure a stable foundation for the home. Builders typically bear the cost of soil testing and foundation setting.

Energy rated to a minimum 7-star rating 

As of October 2023, new homes in Australia must be designed to have a minimum 7-star energy rating. This requirement will be covered by builders to ensure that the house is built for a level of energy efficiency for comfortable living. 

Connection to services

Fully constructed homes will be connected to utility services on behalf of homeowners to simplify the process of moving in.

Standard inclusions for the exterior of a new home

Standard inclusions for the outside of the home cover the essential parts of the house — walls, the roof, outside facing doors and windows, and property fencing. To put it simply, everything you expect a functioning house to have will be included.

• Fully rendered block external walls
• Complete roofing with fascias and gutters
• Property fencing
• Letterbox
• Termite barrier to prevent underground access for termite infestations
• Insulation

Standard inclusions for the interior of a new home

The interior of the home is where homeowners need to be more aware of what is included and what is not. Not all expected fittings and fixtures may be provided under the home’s standard inclusions, requiring homeowners to arrange add-ons separately.

Basic internal finishes

Homes will come with internal doors for rooms and a standard level of finishing for walls, ceilings, and skirtings. Finishing work inside the home covers painting for rooms and walls, with minor detailing according to the home’s design plan.

Kitchen fixtures

The kitchen will include all the necessary cabinetry and fittings for convenience, such as a stovetop, a rangehood or extractor fan, countertops, and oven appliances. 

Bathroom fixtures

Bathrooms include toilets, shower, bath fixtures and sinks. Minor fittings like mirrors and wall hooks will also be included to increase the bathroom’s functionality. 

Electrical system

All internal electrical wiring, connection points, switchboards, and service network ports will be installed in the home. Before the handover of the house, testing is carried out to ensure all electrical fittings work seamlessly. 

Plumbing connections 

The plumbing system of the home is installed in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and all wet areas. Pipes and drains are inspected for potential leaks and signed off.

Flooring

The home’s flooring is a standard inclusion. A lot of new homes in Queensland will have tiles or vinyl flooring.

Add-on inclusions to consider for a new home

Apart from the standard inclusions, there are several features that homeowners should consider for a new home.

Driveway and walkway 

A built driveway and walkway can significantly add to the aesthetic appeal of the home while improving accessibility. Exposed aggregate driveways are popular because they look unique and are non-slip.

Landscaping

Landscaping involves customising the outdoor areas of the home (such as the front or back yard) to create an outdoor space that is both functional and looks good

Air-conditioning

Considering Queensland’s warm and humid weather, air conditioning is almost non-negotiable for many homeowners. Air conditioning is a standard inclusion.

At Keir Constructions, we’re committed to building quality, value-added new homes in Townsville for aspiring homeowners. Our range of Indulgence Home designs in Townsville comes with more than the standard inclusions that other builders offer, such as Daikin airconditioning, an exposed aggregate driveway, a Colorbond roof, as well as top-of-the-line windows and doors. If you’re looking for a home that will last you for a lifetime, get in touch with our team and work with Townsville's only national award-winning builder.