Should I Get Council Approval for My Mezzanine Floor?

Should I Get Council Approval for My Mezzanine Floor?

Here’s Why It Matters for Your Property Value

Installing a mezzanine floor can be an excellent way to expand your workspace, optimise operations, and increase the value of your property. But to fully leverage these benefits, securing council approval is critical. This blog explores the importance of council approval, how it impacts the valuation of your property, and the potential risks of bypassing this essential step.

1. Why Council Approval is Essential for Mezzanine Floors

• Understanding Floor Space Valuation: In commercial and industrial real estate, the value of a property is often based on its total usable square metres. Adding a mezzanine can increase floor space by up to 30%—a substantial boost that can translate directly into property value.
• How Council Approval Affects Valuation: Approval ensures that the added floor space is recognized as legal, maximised usable area. Without council approval, the mezzanine may not be factored into official square meterage, limiting the potential value increase that could benefit the property’s resale or rental value.

2. The Risks of Skipping Council Approval

• Impact on Property Resale and Leasing: Properties with unapproved mezzanine floors often face valuation issues during resale or refinancing, as valuers typically only consider legally compliant floor space. This can significantly impact how potential buyers or lessees view the space and may result in decreased property value.
• Compliance and Liability Issues: Without council approval, the mezzanine may not meet necessary safety and building regulations, leading to legal liabilities and potential fines. Council-compliant mezzanines are engineered and certified to ensure they meet industry standards, providing peace of mind and avoiding costly legal repercussions.

3. How Council Approval Can Boost Your Return on Investment

• Maximising Valuation and Rent Potential: For properties intended for sale or lease, council approval allows for full recognition of the mezzanine’s added space in property appraisals, which can significantly increase its market value. With the approved additional floor area, property owners can command higher rent and boost overall property worth.
• Building Long-Term Value: Approved mezzanine floors are considered permanent improvements, meaning their contribution to square meterage and property value remains intact over time. This compliance not only enhances resale value but also strengthens the building’s long-term investment appeal.

4. Steps to Obtain Council Approval for Your Mezzanine Floor

1. Initial Consultation: Engage with a mezzanine floor provider who understands local regulations and can help assess the requirements for council approval.
2. Submission of Plans and Documentation: Submit detailed plans that meet safety and building code standards. This usually includes architectural drawings, load-bearing calculations, and safety features.
3. Council Inspection and Certification: Once approved, councils typically conduct inspections to verify compliance with building standards. Upon completion, a certification ensures that the mezzanine is a recognized part of your building’s usable space.

5. Why Choosing a Council-Compliant Mezzanine Provider Matters

• Selecting a mezzanine provider who specialises in council-compliant installations ensures you receive an engineered solution that meets regulatory standards. A reliable provider manages the approval process and maximises the value that mezzanine floor space adds to your property.

Secure Your Property’s Future Value with Council Approval

Adding a mezzanine floor is a powerful way to expand and enhance your property, but without council approval, you may miss out on the full benefits. By obtaining approval, you can legally increase your building’s usable floor space, boost its market value, and protect your investment in the long term.

Ready to expand your property’s value with a compliant mezzanine floor? Contact us for a consultation and start maximising your space today.