Our Process
From Concept to Construction — We Handle Everything
Building a home or development project can be overwhelming. From planning controls and approvals through to design, engineering and construction, there are countless moving parts to coordinate.
At RCO Engineering, we simplify the process by managing every stage under one roof, giving our clients a clear pathway from the initial idea through to project completion.
Step 1 — Initial Consultation
We begin with a complimentary consultation to understand your project goals, site constraints, budget, and development objectives.
To properly assess the project, we may request documentation such as:
- Planning Certificate (Section 10.7)
- Contract of Sale
- Survey Plan
- Existing Plans
- Title Documents
- Any available reports
Following our review, you’ll gain a clear understanding of your site’s development potential, likely approval pathways, key constraints and the most practical way to move forward before investing further time and money.
Step 2 — Feasibility Assessment
Our team undertakes a detailed review of the site’s planning controls, zoning requirements, development standards, and physical constraints.
This assessment helps determine:
- What can be built on the site
- Potential development yield
- Site opportunities and limitations
- Preliminary project viability
The objective is to establish a clear development strategy before commencing the design process.
By identifying opportunities and constraints early, we help clients avoid costly surprises and make informed decisions before commencing detailed design.
Step 3 — Approval Strategy & Pathway
Once the design has been sufficiently developed, we determine the most appropriate approval pathway and identify the documentation required for the project.
Depending on the site and development type, this may involve:
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
- Development Application (DA)
At this stage, we establish the approval requirements, consultant scope, and submission strategy to ensure the project progresses efficiently.
Step 4 — Concept Design
Based on the feasibility assessment and client brief, we prepare preliminary design concepts tailored to the site’s opportunities and constraints.
This stage may include:
- Initial floor plans
- Site planning
- Building layout
- Preliminary façade concepts
- Client review and feedback
The concept design establishes the overall vision and direction of the project.
Step 5 — Design Development
Following approval of the concept design, we refine the project into a coordinated architectural design that aligns with both client objectives and planning requirements.
This stage may include:
- Refined floor plans
- Elevations and sections
- Material considerations
- Design coordination
- Ongoing client consultation
The design is progressively developed to prepare for the selected approval pathway.
Step 6 — Engineering & Consultant Coordination
Based on the selected approval pathway, we coordinate the required consultants and technical documentation, which may include:
- Structural Engineering
- Stormwater Design
- BASIX & NatHERS
- Land Surveying
- Geotechnical Reports
- Arborist Reports
- Traffic Reports
- Town Planning Advice
- Sydney Water Coordination
Our integrated approach ensures all disciplines work together efficiently throughout the project.
Our integrated approach allows design, engineering and approvals teams to work together from the outset, reducing delays and minimising redesign during later stages.
Step 7 — Approvals
We prepare and manage the submission of the project to the relevant authority.
Depending on the project, this may include:
- Development Applications (DA)
- Complying Development Certificates (CDC)
- Construction Certificates (CC)
- Section 68 Applications
- Driveway Crossing Approvals
- Section 73 Applications
- Other Authority Approvals
We liaise with councils, certifiers, Sydney Water, and other authorities on behalf of our clients throughout the approval process.
Step 8 —Construction & Certification Documentation (If Applicable)
Following approval, we prepare and coordinate the detailed documentation required for construction, certification, and project delivery.
Depending on the approval pathway and project requirements, this may include:
- Construction Certificate (CC) documentation
- Detailed architectural plans
- Structural engineering plans
- Stormwater plans
- Driveway and site works plans
- BASIX commitments and supporting documentation
- Specifications and schedules
- Consultant reports and certifications
- Authority requirements and supporting documentation
Our team coordinates all relevant drawings, reports, and certifications to ensure the project is ready for construction and complies with the applicable approval conditions.
Step 9 — Construction & Project Delivery (If Applicable)
For clients who engage RCO Engineering for construction services, we manage the delivery of the project from commencement through to completion.
This may include:
- Site management
- Contractor coordination
- Quality assurance
- Program management
- Progress reporting
- Client communication
- Defect management
Our goal is to deliver a high-quality outcome while maintaining transparency, efficiency, and attention to detail throughout the construction process.
Because our construction team has been involved throughout the design and approval process, we are able to deliver projects with greater efficiency, improved coordination and better control over quality, program and budget outcomes.
Step 10 — Completion & Handover
Upon completion, we coordinate final inspections, certification requirements, and project handover.
This may include:
- Occupation Certificate requirements
- Final inspections
- Compliance documentation
- Warranty information
- Project handover
We remain available to assist our clients beyond project completion where required.
Our relationship with clients doesn’t end at handover. We remain available to provide support, advice and assistance after project completion whenever required.
Why Clients Choose RCO
One Team
Design, engineering, approvals and construction under one roof.
Clear Communication
Regular updates throughout every stage.
Faster Coordination
Reduced delays between consultants.
End-To-End Delivery
A single team managing the entire journey.
Ready to start your project?
Whether you’re planning a custom home, duplex, granny flat or development project, our team is ready to help.
Book a complimentary consultation and discover the most practical pathway forward for your site.
