If you’ve ever read a building quote or listened to a site update and thought, “What does that mean?”, you’re not alone.

From PC items to site classification and DA approvals, building jargon can leave even the most prepared homeowner feeling lost.

At AVK Homes, we believe the best building experience starts with knowledge. Understanding the terms you’ll hear along the way helps you make informed decisions, ask the right questions, and feel confident throughout your project.

Here’s your no-fluff guide to the most common building terms – explained in plain English.

PC Items (Prime Cost Items)

A Prime Cost Item is an allowance in your quote for an item you’ll choose later – like tapware, tiles, or appliances. If you pick something more expensive than the allowance, you’ll just pay the difference.

PS Allowances (Provisional Sums)

A Provisional Sum covers work that can’t be priced exactly until construction begins – like excavation or drainage. It’s an estimate, later adjusted to match actual costs.

Site Classification

Your soil is tested and given a classification (A, M, H, E, or P). This tells your builder how reactive it is and helps determine the right foundation system.

Variations

A variation is a change to your signed contract – for example, upgrading finishes or adjusting layouts. Each variation should be documented and costed before work continues.

Build Stages Explained

• Base Stage: Slab or foundation complete
• Frame Stage: Walls and roof frame up
• Lock-Up: Windows and external doors in place
• Fixing: Internal fittings installed
• Completion: Your new home is ready for handover

More Building Terms Explained

Internal Elevations

Detailed drawings that show what each wall or room will look like from the inside – including cabinetry, windows, and finishes.

External Elevations

Scaled drawings showing how your home looks from the outside – capturing roof pitch, cladding, materials, and façade proportions.

Cornice, Skirting & Architraves

These finishing elements connect walls, ceilings, and doors. Cornices finish the wall–ceiling junction, skirting boards line the base of walls, and architraves frame doors and windows.

Cabbage, Pineapple, Red Lobster, Blue Heeler, Pink Flamingo

A little builder slang you might hear on site:

• Cabbage ($100)
• Pineapple ($50)
• Red Lobster ($20)
• Blue Heeler ($10)
• Pink Flamingo ($5)

Now you’ll know what’s being handed around at the local hardware or Friday site shout!

DA (Development Application NSW)

A formal application lodged with your local council to seek approval for your proposed design or renovation.

CC (Construction Certificate NSW)

Issued after your DA is approved, a Construction Certificate confirms your plans comply with building codes so construction can legally begin.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate NSW)

An alternative to a DA for simpler builds – faster approval through a private certifier if your project meets all relevant planning rules.

PP (Planning Permit VIC)

An alternative to a DA for builds in VIC – a Planning Permit authorises development according to local planning schemes before building works start.

BP (Building Permit VIC)

The green light for construction – confirming your plans meet the National Construction Code and local regulations.

HOWI (Home Owners Warranty Insurance)

Mandatory insurance that protects homeowners if the builder dies, disappears, or becomes insolvent before completing the project.

BASIX (Building Sustainability Index)

A NSW requirement that ensures new homes meet minimum energy and water efficiency standards.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme)

Rates a home’s energy efficiency on a scale of 0–10 stars, based on design, materials, and thermal performance.

Ballpark Estimate

An early, high-level estimate of build cost – before detailed drawings or engineering are complete. AVK Homes uses custom software to create fast, accurate ballparks using only your plans.

Preliminary Agreement

A short agreement that allows your builder to start essential pre-construction work – like site investigations, concept drawings, and engineering – before the main contract is signed.

Phone Consult

A quick, obligation-free chat to discuss your goals, timeline, and budget – helping determine whether your project is ready to move forward.

Value Management Document

A unique system developed by AVK Homes to prevent “price shock.” It aligns your design and budget early through builder-led collaboration, so you can move forward confidently knowing costs and expectations are clear.

Handover & Beyond

Once construction is complete, your home enters the defects liability period – a set timeframe where your builder will return to address any minor issues that appear as you settle in. It’s all part of ensuring your home performs beautifully for years to come.

The Bottom Line

The more you understand builder language, the smoother and more enjoyable your build will be. From approvals to energy ratings, each term plays a role in bringing your home to life – and a great builder will always take the time to explain them.

At AVK Homes, that’s exactly what we do. From your first call to the day we hand over the keys, we translate every detail into plain language and keep you informed at every step.

Ready to build with confidence?

Get in touch with AVK Homes to start your renovation, extension, or new home project with a builder who speaks your language – and takes the time to explain it. Explore our projects to see how we bring clarity and craftsmanship to every build.