About this build
A pre-war Queenslander. A Coorparoo block. One owner-builder licence, and a lot of decisions to make.
The project
In 2024, we bought a pre-war Queenslander in Coorparoo, inner Brisbane — the kind of house that needs everything done to it, which in Queensland means an opportunity. We decided to raise it, add a full level underneath, and do as much of the work as we could manage ourselves under an owner-builder licence.
The raise happened in 2018. Since then, we've been working through the build-under: slab, framing, rough-in services, insulation, fit-out. This site documents the whole process as it happens.
Why this site exists
When we were planning this project, we found plenty of inspiration online but very little practical information — especially for Queensland. How much does it actually cost to raise a Queenslander? What does the QBCC owner-builder licence process look like? How do you sequence trades on a build-under?
We're writing the site we wished existed when we started. Every article is based on real experience from this project — costs, timelines, decisions, and the things that didn't go to plan.
A note on advice
This site shares owner-builder experience, not professional advice. Every project is different, every council is different, and the rules change. Always consult licensed builders, structural engineers, and your local council before making decisions about your own project.
The house
- Location: Coorparoo, Brisbane, QLD
- Style: Pre-war Queenslander, weatherboard
- Project: Raise to approximately 3.35m UFL + full build-under
- Procurement: Owner-builder with licensed trades
- Raise completed: 2018