Do You Need Council or Strata Approval to Renovate Your Sydney Apartment?
- harrymilani
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
Before you tear out that dated bathroom or redesign your kitchen layout, it’s important to understand what’s legally allowed in your Sydney apartment. In high-density areas, there are two main authorities you need to consider: Strata and Local Council.
At Milani Concepts, we specialise in apartment renovations across Sydney, and we’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate approval pathways — from minor cosmetic works to full internal overhauls. Here’s what you need to know before you pick up a hammer.
🧱 Strata Approval: Internal Renovation Rules
Most apartments in Sydney are part of a strata-titled building, meaning you own your internal space — but share ownership of the building itself.
What usually needs strata approval:
Changing waterproofing in bathrooms/laundries
Moving plumbing or drainage points
Reconfiguring internal walls (even non-structural)
Adding or upgrading hard flooring (timber, tiles, etc.)
What usually doesn’t need approval:
Painting internal walls
Replacing cabinetry or benchtops (no layout change)
Replacing tapware or fittings (like-for-like)
✅ Our Solution:At Milani Concepts, we prepare the necessary documentation (like Scope of Works and waterproofing certificates) to submit directly to strata on your behalf, ensuring you stay compliant without stress.
🏛️ Council Approval: When Is a DA or CDC Required?
You usually don’t need a Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) for internal apartment renovations. However, external changes, structural works, or heritage-listed buildings may trigger council involvement.
Examples that may require council approval:
Structural changes to load-bearing walls
Changes visible from outside (balcony extensions, new windows)
Properties within a heritage conservation zone
✅ Our Solution:Our team includes architecture-trained professionals who can assess whether council involvement is required — and liaise with engineers and certifiers as needed. We aim to streamline the process so approvals don’t stall your project.
🧠 Pro Tip: Don’t Assume – Ask First
Even simple renovations can cause big legal issues if strata or council aren’t consulted. Some owners have faced insurance voids, delays, and costly reversals due to unapproved works.
✅ Book a Site Session FirstOur Design + Build Roadmap Session includes:
Reviewing your strata by-laws
Flagging any council restrictions
Mapping a compliant renovation plan
It’s better to check first than pay for it later.
✅ Summary: Renovate with Confidence, Not Confusion
Approvals don’t need to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, you can renovate legally, beautifully, and without delay.
🏗️ At Milani Concepts, we’ll assess your property and help you understand exactly what’s allowed — so you don’t waste time or money.
📍 Areas We Service in Sydney
We renovate apartments, villas, and homes across: Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, North ShoreHills District / North West, Northern Beaches, CBD & Surrounds
Wondering if your renovation needs approval?✨ Tap the link Below to start your Design + Build roadmap session — no strings attached.
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