Renovations in strata: What approvals you actually need in NSW (and the fastest way to get them)

Thinking about renovating your apartment? Here’s what you need to know

Renovating a strata property isn’t as simple as starting work once you’ve hired a tradie. In NSW, renovations are regulated to protect the building’s structure and amenity for all residents.

Understanding the right approval pathway can save you weeks of delays and costly rejections.

Three Categories of Renovations Under NSW Strata Laws

1. Cosmetic work (no approval needed)

You can do these without a vote or approval, provided you don’t change common property. Examples include:

• Painting internal walls

• Installing blinds or curtains

• Replacing carpet

• Filling minor cracks in plaster

You can go ahead – no approval required

2. Minor renovations (approval by ordinary resolution at committee Level)

These works may affect common property slightly but are non-structural. Examples include:

• Installing floorboards

• Updating a kitchen (without structural changes)

• Bathroom renovations with waterproofing

• Recessed lighting

• Air-conditioning systems (not affecting external appearance)

Approval needed from the strata committee

3. Major renovations (special resolution at a general meeting)

These works affect the structure or external appearance of the building and involve significant changes to common property. Examples include:

• Removing structural walls

• Changing plumbing or gas layouts

• Installing new windows or external doors

• Adding balconies or external fixtures

• Reconfiguring lot boundaries

Requires a special resolution (75% approval from owners corporation). You must submit a by-law to be passed and registered

Why approvals matter

• Avoid fines and compliance actions from NSW Fair Trading

• Ensure insurance remains valid

• Prevent disputes with neighbours and owners corporation

• Protect your property value

If you carry out unauthorised renovations, you may be ordered to restore the property at your own expense.

How to get strata approval fast:

Step 1: Prepare a detailed scope of works

Include plans, materials, and contractor licences.

Step 2: Provide proof of insurance

Your contractor must have public liability and home building compensation cover if required.

Step 3: Submit to the strata manager

A proactive strata manager will advise the correct category and prepare the necessary motions or by-laws.

Step 4: Attend the meeting (if required)

Be prepared to answer any questions from the committee or owners.

Common mistakes owners make

• Starting renovations without approval

• Not understanding waterproofing rules (major compliance risk)

• Using unlicensed contractors

• Failing to register a by-law for major works

How Centric Strata makes the process easy

We streamline the entire approval process by:

• Reviewing your renovation plans and categorising them correctly

• Preparing motions and by-laws

• Guiding you through insurance compliance

• Fast-tracking committee approvals where possible

Whether it’s a simple floor upgrade or a full kitchen renovation, we help you get approval quickly and stress-free.

Final word

Renovating in a strata property is absolutely possible – as long as you follow the right process. With the right approvals in place, you protect your investment, avoid legal issues, and increase your property value.

Planning renovations?

Contact Centric Strata for guidance before you begin – we can help you get approval the first time, without costly delays.