FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Passive House

  • Not at all. While Passive House principles were originally developed in colder regions, they’re highly effective in warm or mixed climates like Australia's. The key focus is on maintaining consistent indoor temperatures year-round—meaning less energy use for both heating and cooling.


  • Not necessarily. Passive Houses can be designed to match any architectural style. The energy efficiency comes from what’s inside the walls—airtightness, insulation, advanced windows—not from how the house looks externally.

  • While it's more complex than starting from scratch, many Passive House principles can be applied during renovations. Joe Builds can assess your existing structure and recommend upgrades that align with Passive House goals, even if full certification isn’t the end goal. → Learn more about our Passive House building approach in Coffs Harbour.

  • There may be a slightly higher upfront cost due to specialised materials and systems, but the long-term energy savings and health benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Passive Homes typically save up to 90% on heating and cooling costs, which adds up over time.

  • The timeline depends on project complexity and size, but designing a Passive House may take slightly longer due to the detailed planning and certification requirements. Joe Builds can provide a more accurate timeframe during the consultation phase.

  • Passive Houses generally require less maintenance than traditional homes. Mechanical ventilation systems do need periodic filter changes, but otherwise the systems are low-maintenance and designed to run efficiently in the background.

  • Yes! Passive Houses are designed to offer fresh air 24/7 through mechanical ventilation, but you can still open windows whenever you like. The system doesn’t rely on a sealed environment—it simply gives you better air quality and temperature control when the windows are closed.

Home Extensions

  • The best way to start is with an initial consultation. Joe Builds offers a structured process that begins with understanding your goals, followed by a Buildsmart Consultation Agreement to assess your site, define the scope of works, and provide a detailed proposal.
    → See how we deliver custom home extensions in Coffs Harbour that fit your lifestyle and space needs.

  • Absolutely. Whether you want the extension to blend seamlessly with the current structure or stand out with a modern contrast, our team will work with you and your existing design elements to ensure visual and functional harmony.

  • We handle a range of extensions—from single-storey room additions and rear extensions to full second-storey additions. Whether you’re expanding your living area, adding bedrooms, or creating a separate space like a home office or granny flat, we tailor the solution to your needs.

  • Project timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the extension. Once the design and approvals are complete, a typical single-storey extension might take several weeks to a few months, while double-storey additions may require more time.

  • In many cases, you can remain in your home during the construction process, especially for single-storey extensions or when work is isolated to a certain area. We'll always prioritise safety and communicate clearly if a temporary move-out is recommended.

  • Yes. Joe Builds guides clients through every stage—from design concepts and planning to lodging applications with your local council. We make the approval process as smooth as possible by managing the technical and regulatory requirements on your behalf.

  • Well-planned extensions almost always add value to your home, especially when they improve functionality, increase living space, or add features that are highly desirable in the local market. We can help you plan with both lifestyle and resale value in mind.

Custom Build

  • While custom homes can have a higher initial cost due to personalised design and finishes, they offer better long-term value. You avoid paying for features you don’t need and invest in what matters most to you—whether that’s energy efficiency, layout, or materials.

  • It’s possible, but changes made mid-construction can impact cost and timeline. That’s why we place a strong focus on thorough planning upfront. If changes are required, we’ll walk you through the implications and work with you to find the best solution.

  • Not necessarily. Approval timelines depend on your local council and the complexity of your design. We manage the submission process for you and work to streamline it wherever possible.

  • Yes. Our team is experienced in building homes that comply with local zoning regulations, bushfire (BAL) ratings, and flood management codes. We incorporate these requirements into the early design phase so your build progresses smoothly.

  • Coffs Harbour offers a unique blend of beach, bush, and rural living. A custom build allows you to design your home to maximise views, ventilation, natural light, and lifestyle needs—something cookie-cutter designs can’t fully achieve. → Discover how we approach tailored home builds in Coffs Harbour from concept to completion.

Granny Flat

  • Block size requirements depend on your local council regulations and zoning, but many residential blocks in Coffs Harbour qualify. Joe Builds can assess your property during the initial consultation to determine eligibility.

  • Yes. We actively encourage sustainable features such as solar energy systems, water-saving fixtures, and insulation upgrades. These can be integrated during the design phase.

  • While often used interchangeably, a granny flat is usually a secondary dwelling on an existing property, while a small home may stand alone on its own lot. Both can be custom-built and designed for full-time living. → See how we design eco-friendly granny flats in Coffs Harbour built for comfort and performance.

  • Not always. It depends on the layout of your land and council requirements. We can help design solutions that meet compliance while maintaining privacy and ease of access.

  • Yes. Our team can design self-sufficient granny flats suited for rural or off-grid living, complete with rainwater collection, solar storage, and efficient waste management systems.