In most cases, you likely won’t need direct council approval from the Sydney council to renovate your apartment bathroom, but there are some key distinctions to consider:

Internal vs. External Changes: Generally, internal renovations like replacing fixtures, tiles, or cabinetry within your bathroom won’t require council approval.

Strata Approval: Since you’re in an apartment, securing approval from your building’s strata committee is crucial. Strata bylaws often define what changes require permission, and bathroom renovations might fall under this category, especially if they involve:

• Altering shared walls or building exterior walls.
• Modifying plumbing beyond the fixtures themselves (e.g., drainpipes).
• Creating a completely new bathroom where one didn’t exist before.

Extent of Renovation: If your renovation involves significant structural changes, like moving walls or altering the overall layout of the bathroom, you might need to involve a building certifier and potentially council approval depending on the complexity.

Here’s what you can do to ensure a smooth renovation process:

Review Strata Bylaws: Carefully read your building’s strata bylaws to understand their specific requirements for bathroom renovations.

Consult Strata Committee: Contact your strata committee and explain your renovation plans. They can advise you on the approval process and any necessary documentation.

Engage a Licensed Builder: For complex renovations, consider hiring a licensed builder familiar with council regulations and strata approval processes. They can guide you through the necessary steps.

It’s always best to check with your strata committee and potentially a licensed builder before commencing any major bathroom renovations in your Sydney apartment. This proactive approach avoids potential delays or complications down the line.

Renovating a bathroom in an apartment block comes with some unique considerations compared to renovating a bathroom in a detached house. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

Noise Control: Apartment living necessitates being mindful of noise disruptions to your neighbours. Schedule noisy demolition work during permitted hours and explore quieter methods where possible.

Limited Space: Apartment bathrooms tend to be smaller than those in houses. Careful planning for efficient use of space is crucial. Consider features like built-in storage, space-saving fixtures, and strategically placed mirrors to create an illusion of spaciousness.

Waterproofing: Since you’re sharing walls and potentially a floor with neighbors, waterproofing during the renovation is critical to prevent water damage in your apartment and those adjoining it. Ensure your contractor uses proper waterproofing membranes and techniques.

Waste Disposal: Disposing of construction waste can be trickier in an apartment building. Check with your building management about designated waste disposal areas and any limitations on debris removal.

Plumbing Restrictions: Unlike a house, you might have limited access to the main plumbing lines in an apartment. Major plumbing modifications may not be feasible, so focus on renovations that work with the existing plumbing layout.

Strata Committee Approval: As mentioned earlier, securing approval from your building’s strata committee is essential. They might have specific regulations regarding noise levels, work hours, and materials used during renovations.

Sharing Walls and Ceilings: Be mindful of noise transmission through shared walls and potential dust issues when working on ceilings. Soundproofing materials and dust control measures might be necessary.

Access for Workers and Materials: Moving building materials and equipment through common areas in the apartment block might require coordination with building management. There could be limitations on access points or specific times for deliveries.

By carefully considering these unique aspects and planning accordingly, you can ensure a smooth and successful bathroom renovation in your Sydney apartment.