Costs · Alfresco
How much does an alfresco cost in Perth in 2025?
An alfresco is Perth's most popular outdoor addition. But pricing is notoriously hard to pin down, and most quotes vary by 50–100% for the same job. This guide breaks down why, and gives you the real numbers.
Perth alfresco cost ranges 2025
These are Perth-specific figures using Master Builders WA benchmarks and Perth's 1.18× regional multiplier. Installed cost per square metre for a typical alfresco (solid roof, posts, footings, paving).
Budget
$600–$900/m²
Colorbond roof, standard posts, basic paving
Mid-range
$900–$1,400/m²
Insulated roof panel, steel posts, pavers
Premium
$1,400–$2,200/m²
Timber ceiling, downlights, limestone paving
For a typical 30–40 m² Perth alfresco: Budget $18k–$36k · Mid-range $27k–$56k · Premium $42k–$88k+
What's in the price — mid-range 30 m² breakdown
| Item | Approximate cost |
|---|---|
| Posts and footings | $5,500–$7,000 |
| Roofing (insulated panel or colorbond) | $9,000–$13,000 |
| Steelwork and beams | $5,500–$7,500 |
| Concrete or paving | $4,500–$7,000 |
| Labour and installation | $3,000–$4,500 |
| Total (mid-range 30 m²) | $27,500–$39,000 |
The permit rule for alfrescos in WA
The 10 m² rule: A patio/alfresco (solid roof structure) is exempt from a building permit only if it is freestanding, ≤10 m² in area, and ≤2.4 m in height. All three conditions must be met. Most alfrescos exceed 10 m², so most require a permit. A pergola (shade cloth only) gets a more generous 20 m² exemption. Source: Building Act 2011 (WA); City of Bayswater; City of Gosnells.
The five things that drive price variation most
- Roof type: Basic flat colorbond is cheapest. Insulated sandwich panels cost more but reduce summer heat — worth it for WA summers. Timber feature ceilings can double roofing costs.
- Post specification: Lightweight aluminium (budget) vs steel powder-coat (standard) vs timber posts (premium but requires maintenance in coastal WA).
- Footing requirements: Perth's Swan Coastal Plain soil can be reactive. A soil test ($200–$400) can right-size footings and save thousands.
- Attached vs freestanding: Attached alfrescos add 15–25% — more complex waterproofing and structural tie-in required.
- Permit fee: $200–$600 depending on council, adds 3–6 weeks to the timeline.
Budget tip: Get three quotes minimum. In Perth's current market, the spread between cheapest and most expensive quotes for an identical alfresco is commonly 40–60%. Verify each builder's licence at the Building and Energy WA register (free online).
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Sources
Master Builders WA — Building Costs guide · HIA 2025 Renovations Report · City of Bayswater — Sheds, Pergolas and Outdoor Structures · City of Gosnells — Do I need a permit? · Building Act 2011 (WA) Schedule 4