One of the most common questions we hear is whether a kitchen or bathroom renovation needs approval. The short answer for most houses is no, as long as the work is internal and doesn't change the structure. But there are exceptions, and apartments are a different story.
This guide gives a plain English overview for Sydney homeowners. It isn't legal advice, and rules change, so always confirm with your council, the NSW Planning Portal or your strata manager before you start.
Exempt development in NSW
NSW has a set of rules for exempt development: minor building works that don't need planning or building approval as long as they meet specific standards. Many internal alterations, including typical kitchen and bathroom renovations, can fall into this category.
In general terms, internal renovations are more likely to be exempt when:
- The work is inside the home.
- It doesn't change load bearing walls or the structure.
- It doesn't increase the floor area or change the building footprint.
- The property isn't a heritage item.
- The work complies with the Building Code and relevant standards.
Replacing cabinetry, benchtops, tiles, fixtures and fittings in the same positions is usually straightforward. Licensed trades still need to do plumbing, electrical and other regulated work, and waterproofing still needs to meet the Australian Standard.
When approval may be needed
You may need approval, such as a development application or complying development certificate, if your renovation:
- Removes or alters a load bearing wall or other structural elements.
- Extends the home or changes the footprint.
- Involves a heritage item, or certain work in a heritage conservation area.
- Changes the use of a room in a way that affects compliance.
- Includes external changes such as new windows or doors in some situations.
Heritage conservation areas are common in parts of Sydney, including Paddington, Woollahra, Haberfield and many North Shore suburbs. Internal work is often still exempt, but it's worth confirming with your council early. See our pages on renovating in the Eastern Suburbs, Inner West and Upper North Shore.
Renovating an apartment: strata approval
If you own an apartment, the rules are different. NSW strata law sorts renovations into three broad categories.
| Category | Examples | Approval usually needed |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic work | Painting, installing hooks, replacing carpet, fitting built in wardrobes | Generally no approval needed |
| Minor renovations | Renovating a kitchen, changing recessed light fittings, some flooring and wiring work | Approval by the owners corporation |
| Major renovations | Structural changes, work involving waterproofing such as bathroom renovations | Approval by special resolution at a general meeting |
This means most apartment bathroom renovations need a special resolution, because they involve waterproofing, and apartment kitchen renovations usually need owners corporation approval. Your scheme's by-laws may add extra requirements, such as approved work hours, protection of common property, insurance details and waterproofing certificates.
Tips for strata approval
- Talk to your strata manager early and ask what they need.
- Provide a clear scope of works, drawings and the contractor's licence and insurance.
- Allow time for the next general meeting if a special resolution is required.
- Plan lift bookings, work hours and rubbish removal with the building manager.
Our small bathroom ideas and inner city renovation pages have more on apartment projects.
Who's responsible for compliance?
Even when approval isn't required, the work must still comply with the National Construction Code and relevant standards. That's why using licensed contractors matters. Our guide on choosing a renovator explains the licences and insurance to look for, and our guide to bathroom waterproofing explains the wet area standards.
We help you plan it properly
During a free consultation we look at your space, flag anything that may need approval and help you prepare information for strata if you're in an apartment. Learn more about our bathroom renovations and kitchen renovations in Sydney, or contact us.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a DA to renovate my bathroom?
Usually not, if the work is internal, doesn't change the structure or floor area and the property isn't a heritage item. Check the exempt development rules on the NSW Planning Portal or with your council if you're unsure.
Do I need strata approval to renovate my apartment kitchen?
In most cases, yes. Under NSW strata law, renovating a kitchen is generally treated as a minor renovation that needs approval from the owners corporation. Check your scheme's by-laws.
Can I remove a wall between my kitchen and living room?
Possibly, but if it's load bearing it involves structural work, an engineer and often approval. Even non structural walls can contain plumbing or wiring. We assess this during a consultation.
