Is a Dual Occupancy Actually Worth It in Melbourne?

Dual occupancies are often sold as an easy win. Split the block, build two homes, walk away with a tidy margin. On paper, it looks simple. On-site, it rarely is. From what we see as builders, thedifference between a successful dual occupancy and a stressful one usually comes down to decisions made well before construction starts.

Who Dual Occupancy Really Works For

Dual occupancy isn’t for every site or every owner. It tends to work best for blocks with the right zoning, sensible access, and enough width and depth to allow efficient layouts without compromise. When the site is tight or overdeveloped, costs rise quickly and margins shrink.

The Cost Reality Most People Miss

The biggest cost surprises rarely sit in the build contract itself. They come from site works, drainage requirements, service upgrades, design changes, authority conditions, and holding costs duringdelays. Individually, these items don’t always look significant, but combined they can materially

change the feasibility of a project.

Why Council Approval Isn’t a Given

Each Melbourne council applies its own interpretation of planning controls. Overlays, neighbourhood character policies, private open space rules, and stormwater requirements vary widely. Just because a dual occupancy exists nearby doesn’t mean your site will receive the same outcome.

Where Builder Input Makes the Biggest Difference

Design decisions directly influence build cost. Structural spans, wall alignment, roof complexity, and window placement all matter. Early builder input can simplify construction, reduce unnecessary complexity, and avoid variations later. This often has more impact than chasing minor savings on finishes.

When Dual Occupancy Is Worth It

Dual occupancy projects tend to stack up when the site is suitable, the documentation is thorough, and expectations are realistic. Clear feasibility, sound planning advice, and a coordinated design approach create the conditions for a smoother build and a more predictable outcome.

The takeaway is simple. Dual occupancy can be a strong strategy when approached with clarity and discipline. When rushed or driven purely by upside, it’s where we see projects unravel. Understanding the risks early usually makes the difference between a controlled build and an