Demolition Approvals NSW
Whether it’s clearing a block, removing a garage or taking down a granny flat, Buildcert has you sorted.
Demolition approvals, sorted.
Demolition might seem straightforward, but you’ll need the right approval in place first. Buildcert works with demolition companies, builders and homeowners to certify residential demolition projects across NSW.
In most cases, demolition approvals can be issued as a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), it’s the fast-track option that keeps your project moving. The main exceptions are heritage buildings or sites within a heritage conservation area, which may require a Development Application (DA) through council.
Either way, Buildcert makes it simple. We know the regulations, we know what to look out for, and we’ll help you get it right from the start.
[ Our approach ]
How we get your demolition approval sorted.
01
Get your approval lodgedWhat’s involved
Most demolitions in NSW are approved through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC). The only exception is heritage-listed properties or sites, and in those cases, you’ll need to go through Council for a Development Application (DA). For everything else, we’ll prepare and lodge your CDC via the NSW Planning Portal.
You’ll just need to supply a few key documents, like your site plan, demolition scope, asbestos removal plan (if required), survey and title details, and we’ll sort the rest.
Why it matters
This is the legal sign-off that allows demolition to start. No approval, no go. Buildcert will handle CDCs from start to finish; you can focus on what comes next.
What we look at
We check what you’re knocking down (house, garage, shed or other), the zoning of your site, heritage or bushfire overlays, and how close the structure is to roads, boundaries, or easements. This bit of legwork in the early stages means fewer roadblocks later.
02
Final inspection & completion letterWhat’s involved
Unlike construction approvals, demolition CDCs don’t require a Principal Certifier. We do however, carry out a final site inspection once demolition is complete and issue a demolition completion letter.
Why it matters
It’s reassurance that the job’s been done safely and properly, and confirmation that the site is cleared and ready for the next stage. No loose ends, no uncertainty, just a clean slate to get your project ticking along faster.
[ Services ]
The right solution, every time.
Buildcert sorts everything from approvals to final sign-off, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you’ve got one team, all the way through. We’re your one-stop-shop for certification services.
[ Why choose Buildcert ]
Certification sorted.
For projects big or small, Buildcert gets your certification sorted. Trusted experience, clear communication and fast turnarounds mean you get less stress, more certainty, and support to keep your project moving.
- +47000Approvals issued.That's over 47,000 approvals, sorted.
- 15.6B$Total value of construction approved.$15.6B of construction approved and counting.
- +275000Inspections completed.Clients trust Buildcert because we’ve got the experience and know-how to get your certification sorted.
"Buildcert’s building compliance expertise was invaluable during our recent upgrades. Their team brought confidence, clarity and professionalism to a complex project, ensuring everything stayed compliant and on track from start to finish."
"Buildcert has been a reliable partner for years. Their proactive approach, local knowledge, and responsiveness take the stress out of certification for our team."
"Buildcert are a valuable partner for our team. Their practical guidance, collaborative approach and clear advice help us deliver bespoke designs that meet compliance without compromising creativity."
Ready to get your demolition approval sorted?
Frequently asked questions.
Got questions on demolition approval or certification in general? We've put together answers to some of the most common ones.
What’s the difference between a Construction Certificate and a Complying Development Certificate; and which one do I need?
Both are types of building approval, but they apply in different situations:
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC): This is a fast-tracked approval that combines both planning and building approval in one. If your project meets specific rules under the State’s Housing Code (like height limits, setbacks and site coverage), you can skip council and get approved by a private certifier, often much faster.
- Construction Certificate (CC): This is used when your project has already been through the full Development Application (DA) process with council. A DA gives planning approval, and the CC is the building approval that follows. You’ll need both before work can start.
I’m doing the work myself. Do I need an Owner Builder Permit?
If you're taking on a project as an owner builder where the cost of works is more than $10k you’ll need an Owner Builder Permit from NSW Fair Trading. But you can only apply for it once your CDC has been issued.
You’ll also need to give us a copy of your permit at least two days before work starts.
More info and permit applications are available via NSW Fair Trading.
What documentation is needed for a certification quote?
To do a quote for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) we just need your site plans that include front, side and rear setbacks as well as elevations (if you have any supporting property documents like a Title Search send that through as well). For a Construction Certificate (CC), all we’ll need is your development consent from Council and your Development Application (DA) stamped plans.
Are inspections mandatory?
You betcha - inspections are a required part of the approval process. They’re how we make sure your project meets safety and compliance standards.
The inspections listed on your CDC or CC are the minimum required for your project. The exact number can change depending on things like staging or construction method. If extra inspections are needed, we’ll flag it early and let you know what’s involved.
It’s usually the builder’s responsibility to book inspections in, and in some cases specialists (like engineers) may also need to inspect and provide written confirmation. Either way, we’ll keep you across what’s required so there are no surprises.
Toolbox
Sorted.
