Understanding Strata Regulations for Renovations in Sydney

Renovating a strata-titled property in Sydney is very different from renovating a standalone home. With shared ownership, common property obligations, and legally enforced by-laws, owners must follow Strata Renovation Rules Sydney to avoid delays, fines, or disputes. Whether you’re planning a new kitchen, bathroom upgrade, flooring replacement or structural layout change, understanding your strata responsibilities is the first step toward a smooth renovation experience.

This guide breaks down what strata ownership means, which renovations need approval, how to apply, and how RJG Group supports owners through the entire process—ensuring compliance, efficiency and exceptional workmanship.

Understanding Ownership, Common Property & Legal Requirements

Strata properties operate under a shared ownership model. You own your individual lot (your apartment or unit), but you also share ownership of common property such as foyers, external walls, roofs, plumbing stacks, windows, gardens, and pathways. Because of this structure, any renovation that may impact shared systems or building integrity is regulated.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: What Strata Ownership Means for Renovators

In NSW, strata schemes are governed by the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, which outlines how owners must maintain their lots, who is responsible for common property, and which types of renovations need formal approval. Owners must also comply with their scheme’s by-laws, which outline rules covering noise, renovations, flooring, waterproofing, and contractor requirements.

Strata renovation categories typically fall into:

• Cosmetic changes (no approval needed)

• Minor renovations (committee approval required)

• Major works/structural changes (full approval at a general meeting required)

RJG Group often works with strata committees directly, helping owners prepare compliant documentation, engineering details, scope-of-works statements and trades insurance.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: Renovations That Require Approval

Cosmetic work like repainting or replacing cabinet handles might not require approval, but any work involving common property, plumbing, structural changes, or external appearance always needs formal consent. This includes:

• Altering internal walls

• Waterproofing or retiling

• Upgrading flooring that affects acoustic ratings

• Replacing windows or balcony doors

• Plumbing or electrical changes tied to shared services

• Installing air-conditioners, vents, skylights or external fixtures

• Modifying balconies, balustrades or courtyards

Because these elements often connect to shared infrastructure, the strata committee must assess the risks and ensure the building remains compliant and safe.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: Approval Process, Documentation & Insurance Requirements

Getting approval isn’t as simple as filling out a form—strata committees need a detailed understanding of your renovation plans, timelines, contractors and potential impacts.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: How to Prepare for the Approval Process

Before submitting your proposal, review your building’s by-laws. Some schemes have strict acoustic requirements, specific waterproofing standards, or rules about working hours. Others prohibit altering external appearances without a special resolution.

Your application will typically require:

• Detailed renovation plans

• A full description of the works

• Impact assessment on common property

• Contractor licences & insurance certificates

• Engineering or strata reports (if structural work is involved)

• Proposed start and finish dates

• Site access requirements and noise considerations

For major works, you may need a by-law drafted by a solicitor—this document legally transfers the responsibility for future maintenance of affected common property from the strata to you.

The strata committee may request revisions or additional documentation before granting approval.

Strata Meetings & Voting Requirements

Minor renovations usually require a simple committee approval. However, major renovations—especially structural changes or waterproofing—must be approved at a general owners meeting, where the proposal is put to a vote.

Being present at the meeting helps you:

• Clarify your renovation goals

• Address concerns directly

• Reduce approval delays

In many cases, RJG Group attends meetings with owners to answer technical questions on construction, compliance, and material specifications. As members of the master builders association, our processes follow recognised industry standards.

Insurance, Compliance & Legal Obligations

Strata committees often require owners to carry additional insurance during the renovation period, such as:

• Public liability insurance

• Contract works insurance

• Home building compensation cover (for larger projects)

All renovation work must meet:

• NSW building codes

• NSW Fair Trading requirements

• Australian Standards

• Strata by-laws

• Local council regulations (if applicable)

Failing to comply can result in stop-work orders, fines, or legal disputes.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: Risks, Penalties & Professional Support

Renovating without approval can result in serious financial and legal consequences.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: What Happens If You Renovate Without Approval?

Unauthorised work may lead to:

• Orders to restore the property to its original condition

• Legal action from the strata committee

• Insurance claims being denied

• Liability for damage to common property

• Financial penalties

• Ongoing disputes with neighbours or the committee

Strata committees take waterproofing, acoustics, plumbing and structural integrity extremely seriously—these are common property issues that affect many units, not just yours.

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: Why Working With Experts Matters

Renovations in strata properties require a balance of:

• Compliance

• Technical design

• Clear documentation

• Professional project management

RJG Group provides support through every stage, including:

• Helping prepare strata approval submissions

• Producing compliant scope-of-work documentation

• Coordinating engineers, certifiers and licensed trades

• Managing communication with strata committees

• Ensuring all work meets legal and building code standards

Strata Renovation Rules Sydney: How RJG Group Delivers Stress-Free Strata Renovations

Clients choose RJG Group because we offer:

• Extensive experience with Sydney strata renovations

• Full project management to ensure efficiency

• Clear communication with strata committees & building managers

• High-quality workmanship that enhances home value

• Knowledge of waterproofing, acoustics and structural compliance

Our goal is to make your renovation smooth, compliant and stress-free while achieving the design outcome you envision.

Final Thoughts

Renovating a strata property requires more planning, more documentation, and more communication than standalone home renovations — but with the right guidance, it can be a seamless process.

By understanding Strata Renovation Rules Sydney, securing proper approvals, and working with licensed professionals, you can avoid setbacks and enjoy a beautifully upgraded home that complies with all legal and structural requirements.

RJG Group is ready to help you navigate every step of your strata renovation journey. Contact us today for expert guidance, assessment, and a personalised consultation.