How Much Do Site Works Cost? [2025]

What All Works Come Under Site Works?

In general site works are also otherwise called side preparation or side development. It usually refers to the construction sites’ initial face where the land is being prepared for building. Considering site works play a crucial role in creating a safer environment for the public and making it a suitable location to live. In fact, site works typically include a variety of tasks, altogether shaping the land to make it ready for constructing an infrastructure or a building. Inclusions that come under site works are listed below with the explanation:

• Excavation And Grading- Removing the rocks, soil and other materials to create a level surface for the construction land.


• Earthworks- Activities like land cutting or filling archived to gain results like desired contours and grades by involving soil compaction.


• Foundation Preparation- To construct the footings and start the placement of the building foundation, excavation and preparation are done.


• Clearing And Demolition- Clearing off all the existing structures like vegetation and other opticals and tearing down the existing buildings on the site.


• Drainage- Implementing the drainage system for managing the water runoff and preventing problems such as erosion or flooding.


• Utility Connections- Installations along with connections are done for certain utilities like gas sewer, water, telecommunication, and electricity to the site.


• Landscaping- Some of the basic landscaping activities are improving the side aesthetics, complying with the laws and regulations of local bodies, etc.


• Erosion Control- Implement certain measures like erosion control blankets and installation of silt fences to control the soil erosion that might happen during or after the building construction.


• Access Roads And Parking- Build a temporary or permanent access road to the construction site to give access to vehicles and other purposes.

How Much Do Site Works Cost?

Usually, the cost it takes to prepare a construction site ranges between $5,000 and $70,000 depending upon land terrain blocks and the size of the property. The site works costs are estimated in the following manner:

• Small and flat block in a developed area: About $5000


• Medium-sized and relatively flat surface in a developed area: $12,000


• Large-scale site with a flat surface in a developed area: $25,000


• Extensive retaining walls: $25,000.

In addition to the preparation of land, there are also other variable and fixed costs that need to be considered. These costs are based on the designated project which usually includes,

• Local regulatory knowledge


• Community engagement


• Risk management


• Surveillance


• Fencing


• Security guards


• Termite protection


• Utility connections


• Soil surveys and tests

What Causes The Site Costs To Increase?

Several factors contribute to the increase in site works cost throughout the construction project. So, if you want to understand these factors accurately, then look at the following explanation:

Things To Consider If You Plan To Save On The Building Site Costs

There are several considerations you need to take into account if you want your working site to cost low and make it a pocket-friendly investment. Now, take a look at the tips we mentioned for optimising and reducing the site work costs.

• Engage with the building designer to let him or her find a cost-effective option for materials, construction method and design requirements.


• In order to reduce the streamline construction processes, minimise the wastage and use of other costly materials, optimise the design.


• Opt for local materials and save your transportation costs when materials like bricks, soil, and cement are supplied.


• There are smart construction techniques like modular construction and prefabrication, both of which are cost-effective and efficient for on-site construction.


• Keep assessing the site works to immediately identify all the potential risks and develop contingency plans as solutions.


• Include the use of project management software for coordination and communication improvement between the client and building designers.

We also provide comprehensive cost guides on loft conversion, electric car servicing, and wedding cake costs, aiding you in making informed decisions regarding your projects and expenses.

Getting A Free Quote From The Builder

When seeking construction services in Australia across various states, acquiring a written quote for site work to reveal pricing details is a common practice. With ServiceTasker™, you can streamline this process by requesting three free quotes from builders. This allows you to compare and evaluate the transparency of services offered by different building designers before making your decision.