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Demolition approvals Buildcert image 1

Demolition Approvals NSW

Whether it’s clearing a block, removing a garage or taking down a granny flat, Buildcert has you sorted.
Demolition approvals Buildcert image 1

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.

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[ Our approach ]

How we get your demolition approval sorted.

01

Get your approval lodged
What’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.

View our CDC Lodgement Checklist for Demolition →

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.

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[ 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.

Buildcert
  • +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.
Ready to get your demolition approval sorted?
Contact us
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Frequently asked questions.

Got questions on demolition approval or certification in general? We've put together answers to some of the most common ones.

Explore all FAQs

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.

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