There are many costs to building a carport. Make sure you include all of them in your budget.
How much does a carport cost? Well, it’s a little like asking ‘how long is a piece of string’? – it really depends on what you want.
When planning the budget for your carport, consider the factors below.
Kit or custom?
It is possible to pick up a carport kit for as little as $1000 – but the styles and colours available will be limited and most importantly the quality will be low. Remember this structure will be not just protecting your car, it will be hanging over it. You want to be absolutely positive it will not collapse.
A good quality single carport kit will cost around $2,000-$3000, while double carports are around $4,000-$5,000. Always keep in mind that this is just the materials needed to buy the kit – you still need to ensure the site is prepared, all necessary council fees have been paid, and you have skilled labour available for assembly – see the additional costs below.
Custom-built carports are more of an investment – but they offer the ultimate in freedom of choice concerning design and colours. It’s almost impossible to offer an expected price range, but be prepared for quotes over $6,000. You’ll need to see which of the additional costs below are included in the contract.
Additional costs
Surface preparation
The level of surface preparation will depend on what you currently have in place – and your end goals. If the land quite steep, you need to consider excavation and its associated costs.
A concrete slab is great for preventing puddles forming in the parking area (if laid correctly) and limited the amount of dust and dirt the car moves.
Other options include packed dirt, gravel, tiles, and bricks.
Installation
DIY kit carports come with detailed instructions and there is also plenty of information online (especially videos) on YouTube to help you assemble your kit carport. However good your skills are, though, you will need a competent assistant (you cannot install a carport solo).
As with hiring any tradesperson, you will need to check they are licensed, qualified and insured to carry out the work. It is also advisable you ask for references from previous clients.
Council fees
Most states require a building permit or building approval of some description for carports. There are exceptions to the rules in Victoria and NSW – you will need to check with your local council.
If you’re hiring a company to construction your carport, these fees (and the associated bureaucratic annoyances) are sometimes included as part of the total cost. Check with your company to see if this is the case.
