Know the Law About Retaining Walls

From time to time, alterations made to a home's landscape create the need for retaining walls. Without a proper retaining wall, major differences in level can cause erosion and other problems. Do you know the law concerning retaining walls? If not, you'd better learn it before you build one; learn more below.

Who's Responsibility Is It?

Unfortunately, retaining walls aren't always needed on just a single property. From time to time, the situation requires that a retaining wall be built between two different properties. In such a scenario, who is responsible for having it built? This must be decided between the two parties; if an agreement can't be reached, then the courts may need to get involved. Ideally, though, you'll be able to work something out with your neighbour.

If a retaining wall is needed on the boundary of a property, it can sometimes be built just on one side of the boundary line. In fact, this is the ideal solution - the neighbour who actually requires the retaining wall should have it built on their side of the line. Occasionally, two neighbours may decide to go in on a retaining wall together. In that case, the most fair way to handle it is by having the retaining wall straddle both properties. In terms of costs, the neighbours should try to split them as equitably as possible.

What About Council Approval?

Council approvals will be required if the retailing wall creates a difference in land level of more thank one metre. However, if the difference in levels exceeds that amount, then you're going to need to get approval. Make sure that you know ahead of time what sort of level you'll require. Otherwise, you'll have to interrupt your work and seek Council approval in the middle of the project; if you fail to get approved, all of that work will have been for nothing.

Types of Retaining Walls -

You have several options when it comes to retaining walls. Concrete sleepers and vertical steel configurations are the most popular choices, since they are inexpensive and easy to build. Soil batter can be performed in cases where very little alterations need to be made to the level of the soil. Materials such as moss rock, dry stone or modular blocks can be used if you are aiming for an attractive look for your new retailing wall. These are vastly preferable to wood, since termites can make home in it. You should still have a pest inspection company check your home for termites from time to time, though, to be safe.

About The Author Once you've build your retaining wall, you should have a Brisbane building inspection company come out and take a look at it. That way, you can ensure that everything is up to code. It's better to find out bad news straight away, instead of years down the line. Many pest inspection Brisbane firms will perform the same service.