Renovation & Extension Approvals NSW
Planning a renovation or extension in NSW? We’ll help you figure out what approvals are needed, and take the paperwork off your plate, so you can get stuck into the renovation.
Renovation approvals, sorted.
We’re not telling you anything you don’t already know… there’s a fair bit of practical stuff to tick off before starting a renovation. In NSW, many renovations and extensions (also referred to as alterations and additions) need formal approval. Typically, things like internal layout changes and extensions will require certification, but smaller projects may not.
Buildcert is here to make sure you know what’s needed and to help you sail through the certification process. If you’re a residential builder, designer, homeowner or owner-builder, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll guide you through the approval path, no stress, no surprises. That’s the sort of certifier you’re working with.
[ Our approach ]
How we get your renovation approval sorted.
01
Do you need approval?What's involved
Not every renovation needs certification, but many do. Approval is generally required for things like:
- Changing internal layouts
- Relocating windows or doors
- Adding new rooms or extensions
- Renovating a heritage property
- Building a deck more than 1m above ground level
Some smaller projects may fall under “exempt development” and won’t need approval. You can learn more here.
If you’re doing the renovation yourself, it requires approval, and the cost of the proposed works is over $10k, you will likely need to get an Owner-Builder Permit. More info can be found here.
What to consider
There are two main project approval pathways in NSW:
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC): faster turnaround, suitable for straightforward jobs that meet a pre-determined set of standards (most internal alterations will fit a CDC pathway)
- Development Consent + Construction Certificate (CC): For any projects that don’t qualify for a CDC. If your property is a heritage building, it will need to go down this route.
Not sure if your project needs a CDC or something else? We’ll help you figure out the path forward, no stress.
02
Quote & Go03
Getting your documents ready04
Lodgement & Approval05
Construction & Final Sign-Off
[ Services ]
The right solution, every time.
Buildcert sorts everything from approvals to final sign-off, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you’ve got one team, all the way through. We’re your one-stop-shop for certification services.
[ Why choose Buildcert ]
Certification sorted.
For projects big or small, Buildcert gets your certification sorted. Trusted experience, clear communication and fast turnarounds mean you get less stress, more certainty, and support to keep your project moving.
- +47000Approvals issued.That's over 47,000 approvals, sorted.
- 15.6B$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 renovation project sorted?
Frequently asked questions.
Got questions on renovation or extension approvals or certification in general? We've put together answers to some of the most common ones.
What is the process of certifying unapproved works?
If building work was done without proper approval, a Building Information Certificate (BIC) from Council is needed. Council uses the BIC to review what’s been done and decide if it meets current codes or needs modifications.
Can Buildcert help? Unfortunately, Buildcert can’t issue BICs. Only Council can issue a BIC NSW. However, as part of the BIC process, Council may request a Building Code of Australia (BCA) report. If this is the case, then we may be able to assist with this report depending on the project details.
What documentation is needed for a certification quote?
Can I draw my own plans?
What’s the difference between a Construction Certificate and a Complying Development Certificate; and which one do I need?
Toolbox
Sorted.
