Thinking about adding a carport to your property?

Whether it’s to protect your vehicle from harsh sun and hail or simply to add a bit more undercover space, a well-built carport can be a great investment for your home. But before you dive in, there are a few things every NSW homeowner should know.

Here’s a beginner-friendly checklist covering approvals, materials, space, and more.

1. Check if You Need Council Approval

In many parts of NSW, you can build a carport without needing council approval - but only if it meets certain conditions under exempt development rules. These conditions include maximum height limits, distances from boundaries, and total floor area. For anything outside these limits, you’ll need to lodge a Development Application (DA).

Tip: If you’re in Dubbo or Central West NSW, our team can guide you through the local rules and even handle council approvals for you.

2. Know Your Property Boundaries

Before any building begins, it’s crucial to understand where your property lines are. Your carport may need to be set back from the boundary, especially if it's close to neighbours or fronting a public road. Getting a property survey done will help avoid future headaches.

3. Choose the Right Size and Layout

Think about what you’ll actually use the carport for.

• Is it just for one car or two?
  
  
• Do you need extra height for a 4WD or caravan?
  
  
• Want to include some storage space at the rear?
  
  

Planning the size and layout from the start will help future-proof your setup and make sure you’re making the most of the available space.

4. Decide on Freestanding or Attached

Carports can either be freestanding or attached to your home.

• Freestanding carports are great for flexibility and can be placed almost anywhere on your block.
  
  
• Attached carports often integrate better with the home’s roofline and are perfect for driveways that run alongside the house.
  
  

5. Pick Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials

For most NSW homeowners, Colorbond steel is the go-to choice. It’s durable, rust-resistant, and available in a wide range of colours to match your home. Timber is another option, but keep in mind it requires more ongoing maintenance.

Outback Home Improvements uses only quality materials built to withstand Central West NSW’s tough weather - from scorching sun to hailstorms.

6. Think About Drainage and Runoff

Don’t forget to factor in how water will drain off the carport roof. You might need to connect it to stormwater or install gutters and downpipes to direct water away from your home and garden. Poor drainage can cause erosion or water pooling near your house.

7. Get a Professional Quote and Design Advice

While DIY kits are available, a professionally designed and installed carport gives you peace of mind and usually lasts much longer. Local builders like Outback Home Improvements will take into account wind ratings, soil conditions, and design aesthetics - not just the basic structure.

Let’s Build It Right, the First Time

At Outback Home Improvements, we’ve been designing and building carports across Dubbo and Central West NSW for over 30 years. Whether you need a simple single carport or a custom double design with extra clearance, we’ll walk you through the process from start to finish.

Call Brentley today on 0402 947 764 to get started.