Have you decided to build a new deck? Thinking about knocking down that old wall? There are a number of things you should consider before you start any renovations work.
Do you need Development approval?
Before erecting a building, or making any changes to a building or other premises such as a garage or shed, you may need to submit a development application (DA).
Visit our development types section for information on what development needs a DA and what doesn't.
If you need further help please contact Council on Phone: 02 4974 2000.
Department of Fair Trading
If you are having renovation or building work done on your home where the reasonable market cost of the labour and materials involved in the work is over $1,000 (including GST), you will need to engage a licensed contractor. The builder or tradesperson must enter into a written contract with you where
- the contract price is over $1,000 (including GST) or
- if the contract price is not known, is for the provision of labour and materials by the contractor the reasonable market cost of which is more than $1,000 (inclusive of GST).
By law, your builder or tradesperson must give you a copy of this booklet
before you enter into a contract for residential building work worth more than $5,000. The Department of Fair Trading have produce a booklet titled Consumer Building Guide that contains important information about things you shouold know before you sign the contract or accept a quote and it is strongly recommended that you take the time to read it.
Have you thought about asbestos?
Buildings, houses and flats erected before the mid 1980s may contain asbestos. Examples of where asbestos can be commonly found in buildings include
- fibro sheeting (commonly found in older garages, bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and external walls)
- roofs (including eaves and gables)
- vinyl tiles and backing
- guttering and
- drainage and flue pipes
Find out about what you need to do to safely remove and dispose of asbestos.
Look out for lead paint
Lead paint is most likely to be found in houses built before 1970. Health risks increase if the paint is flaking or chalking and the risk is particularly high if the lead paint is removed by sanding, sandblasting or burning.
Find out about the health impacts of lead paint and what you should do to safely remove it.