How much do eaves cost to add to a house?

Costs vary depending on the size of the home, roof design, and builder. On a new build, adding eaves is generally a modest addition to the total build cost. Retrofitting eaves to an existing home is typically more expensive as it may require modifying the roof structure. Get specific quotes for your project.

Do eaves affect my home's energy rating?

They can. Homes with eaves on the north and west faces may see improvements in their NatHERS energy rating. In Adelaide and other hot climates, north-facing eaves are particularly effective at blocking high summer sun while allowing winter warmth in. A building designer or energy assessor can model the impact for your design.

Why don't some modern homes have eaves?

Removing eaves reduces construction costs and allows builders to build closer to boundary lines on narrow blocks. Box-style 'eave-less' homes are also a design trend. However, the trade-offs can include higher energy bills, faster deterioration of exterior paint and cladding, and more water splash-back against walls.

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Eaves

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By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: 1 March 2026 · How we research

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Eaves explained in detail

The edges of a roof that extend beyond the exterior walls of a building. They're usually on pitched roofs, and their primary purpose is to protect the walls of the building from rainwater. The eaves also provide shade for windows and walls, which can help to reduce the amount of heat that enters the building - particularly important in Australia's climate. Standard eave widths in Australia range from 450mm to 600mm, with wider eaves (up to 900mm) recommended in hotter regions. Eaves play a critical role in passive cooling: north-facing eaves block harsh summer sun while still allowing low winter sun to warm your home. Many modern 'box' designs have removed eaves to cut costs, but this decision can lead to higher energy bills, water damage to exterior walls, and reduced comfort. If your builder quotes a design without eaves, it may be worth asking for the energy rating comparison.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about eaves

In Australia, eaves of 450-600mm are common and provide good sun protection. Wider eaves (up to 900mm) offer better shade in hot climates like Adelaide. Many modern designs have reduced or no eaves, but this can increase cooling costs and weather exposure. Check your local energy efficiency requirements - NatHERS ratings often improve with adequate eaves.

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Cost figures are indicative onlyUpdated February 2026

All prices and cost ranges mentioned are approximate, based on Adelaide market conditions at time of writing, and may not reflect current pricing. Actual costs depend on your specific site, design, builder, materials, and market conditions. Project-specific quotes from qualified professionals are needed for accurate pricing.

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Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

National Construction Code (NCC)

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Australian Standards (AS / AS-NZS)

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

Housing Industry Association (HIA)

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia (MBA)

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

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Consumer and Business Services (CBS)

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Western AustraliaWA

Building and Energy (within Dept of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)

TasmaniaTAS

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Australian Capital TerritoryACT

Access Canberra (Construction Occupations Registrar)

Northern TerritoryNT

Building Practitioners Board / NT Worksafe (Building)

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.