Property Development Due Diligence Checklist

This checklist outlines key factors to address when conducting property development due diligence in Australia.

Please consider that this checklist serves as a broad outline, and the precise due diligence procedure might differ depending on where you are located and the type of property you are looking to purchase or develop.

Title and Ownership:

Verify property ownership through land title searches.

Check for any encumbrances, easements, or restrictions on the title.

It's essential to understand the history of the title. A comprehensive search can reveal if there were any disputes or issues in the past. This can be crucial, especially if there have been multiple owners or if the property has been passed down through generations.

Zoning and Planning Regulations:

Understand local zoning laws and regulations governing land use and development.

Review local planning schemes and regulations to ensure compliance.

Local councils often have specific guidelines about the type of structures or businesses that can operate in certain zones. Being aware of these can save developers from potential legal troubles and fines in the future.

Development Approvals:

Determine if the property has the necessary development approvals and permits.

Identify any conditions attached to these approvals.

Conditions might include specific design elements, green space requirements, or community amenities. Meeting these conditions can often lead to smoother approval processes and fewer objections from local residents or councils.

Environmental Assessment:

Conduct environmental site assessments to identify potential contamination issues.

Comply with environmental impact assessment requirements and obtain necessary permits.

Environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important. Developers should be proactive in addressing potential environmental impacts, not only to comply with regulations but also to ensure the sustainability of their projects.

Heritage and Cultural Significance:

Check if the property is listed as a heritage site or has cultural significance.

Understand the implications for development and renovation.

Properties with heritage or cultural significance often come with strict guidelines. However, they can also offer unique architectural elements that can be a selling point if preserved and highlighted correctly.

Infrastructure and Services:

Confirm availability of essential services like water, electricity, sewage, and telecommunications.

Assess the cost and feasibility of connecting to these services.

While urban areas might have easy access to these services, rural or newly developed areas might require significant investment. It's crucial to factor these costs into the overall budget.

Market Research:

Analyse local property market trends, demand, and supply dynamics.

Identify target demographics and tailor the project to market needs.

Understanding the local market can provide insights into what potential buyers or tenants are looking for. This can guide decisions on property size, amenities, and design elements.

Financial Feasibility:

Estimate development costs, including land acquisition, construction, and associated fees.

Conduct a detailed financial analysis to project potential returns and risks.

A thorough financial analysis can help developers secure funding from banks or investors. It can also guide decisions on whether to proceed with a project or look for alternative opportunities.

Due Diligence on Partners:

Research and select reputable architects, builders, and consultants with experience in the Australian market.

Contractual and Legal Considerations:

Draft and review contracts, ensuring they adhere to Australian property laws.

Consider legal structures for the development, such as joint ventures or special purpose entities.

Choosing the right partners can make or break a project. It's essential to have a team that shares the developer's vision and can deliver on time and within budget.

Taxation and Financial Planning:

Understand applicable taxes, including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

Develop a tax-efficient financial plan aligned with Australian regulations.

Tax implications can significantly impact the profitability of a project. Developers should consult with financial experts to ensure they are taking advantage of any available tax breaks or incentives.

Community Engagement:

Engage with local communities, councils, and stakeholders to address concerns and gain support.


Address any objections or feedback through transparent communication.

Building a good relationship with the local community can lead to smoother approval processes and fewer objections. Regular communication and transparency are key.

Due Diligence on Existing Structures:

Inspect existing structures for compliance with safety and accessibility standards.

Evaluate potential for renovation, adaptive reuse, or redevelopment.

Existing structures can offer unique design elements and can often be renovated at a lower cost than new construction. However, they might also come with hidden issues that need to be addressed.

Risk Management:

Identify potential risks related to economic, market, and regulatory changes.

Develop risk mitigation strategies to ensure project resilience.

In the ever-changing property market, it's essential to be prepared for any potential setbacks. Having a solid risk management plan in place can help developers navigate these challenges.

Next Steps:

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