Sydney homeowners often begin renovations with a rough budget in mind, only to find that costs shift once real decisions need to be made. This checklist focuses on the decisions and approvals that most often affect apartment renovation costs, timelines, and outcomes in Sydney. This guide explains how renovation costs actually work in Sydney — and what to consider so expectations stay realistic once planning and construction begin.
We help Sydney homeowners understand renovation costs by breaking budgets down properly — by scope, complexity, and property type. A realistic renovation budget isn’t about chasing the lowest price; it’s about aligning expectations with the work required to achieve a durable, well-finished result.
Key Takeaway Questions
- Are you unsure what a realistic renovation budget looks like in Sydney?
- Have you seen cost estimates that feel vague or unreliable?
- Do you want to understand which parts of a renovation drive costs the most?
- Are you trying to avoid budget blowouts once construction begins?
- Are you deciding whether your renovation plans actually match your budget?
Step 1: Be Clear on What You’re Allowed to Change
Before you think about design or budgets, you need to understand what you’re actually allowed to renovate.
In Sydney apartments, anything that affects waterproofing, structure, plumbing, electrical systems, or common property usually needs approval. Cosmetic changes inside your lot are often simpler, but assumptions can cause problems later.
Start by reviewing your strata by-laws and confirming whether your renovation affects common property. If you’re unsure, clarify this early — it’s much easier before plans are drawn. Many owners find it helpful to speak with strata and apartment upgrade specialists at this stage to avoid missteps.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget for an Apartment Renovation
Apartment budgets need to account for approvals, access, and strata logistics.
Access restrictions, working hours, waste removal, and coordination with building management all add time and cost. Budgeting only for the build and not the surrounding logistics is a common mistake.
A realistic budget should include design, approvals, construction, contingency, and strata-related costs. Leaving room for unexpected issues is especially important in older buildings. Our post about apartment renovation costs in Sydney explains how these factors usually affect pricing.
Step 3: Prepare the Right Plans and Documentation
Strata approvals usually require more than a basic idea or sketch.
Most owners’ corporations want clear documentation showing what’s being changed, how it will be done, and how risks will be managed. This may include plans, specifications, waterproofing details, and contractor information.
Clear documentation speeds up approvals and reduces back-and-forth with strata committees.
Step 4: Obtain Strata Approval Before Starting Work
No matter how small the renovation feels, starting work without approval is risky.
Strata approval is typically required before any work begins, especially for bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, or layout changes. Some renovations may also require council approval, depending on the scope of work.
Approval timelines vary between buildings, so this step needs to be factored into your schedule. Rushing it often leads to delays later. The approval steps are similar to other NSW projects, such as those outlined in the granny flat approval process in NSW, where early planning avoids issues down the track.
Step 5: Engage Licensed and Apartment-Experienced Contractors
Apartment renovations require contractors who understand strata buildings.
Licensing, insurance, and experience working in shared spaces all matter. Contractors also need to follow building rules around access, noise, lifts, and protection of common areas.
Using teams experienced in apartment and strata renovations in Sydney reduces the risk of disputes, delays, and compliance issues during construction.
Step 6: Plan the Renovation Schedule Around Building Rules
Apartments come with strict working hours and access limits.
Noise restrictions, lift bookings, delivery windows, and waste removal rules all affect how work is scheduled. These factors can extend timelines compared to house renovations.
A clear schedule that aligns with strata rules helps the renovation run smoothly and avoids complaints from neighbours.
Step 7: Prepare for Living Arrangements and Site Logistics
Living through an apartment renovation can be challenging.
Water shut-offs, limited access, noise, and dust can make staying in the unit difficult during certain stages. Planning ahead for temporary living arrangements, storage, and site access makes the process far less stressful.
Waste removal and material storage also need to be organised carefully in strata buildings.
Step 8: Complete Inspections and Close Out the Renovation Properly
Finishing the renovation isn’t just about the final clean.
Many strata buildings require sign-off documentation, compliance certificates, and waterproofing warranties once work is complete. These records are important for future sales and ongoing maintenance.
Make sure all approvals are closed out properly and that documentation is stored safely.
A Final Word on Apartment Renovations in Sydney
Apartment renovations can run smoothly when they’re planned properly from the start.
Most issues come from skipped steps, unclear approvals, or underestimating the complexity of working in a shared building. This checklist is designed to help you avoid those problems and move through the process with confidence.
For a broader look at planning, approvals, timelines, and design considerations, this checklist works alongside our Sydney apartment renovation guide, which explores the process in more detail.
Thinking About Renovating Your Apartment?
If you’re planning an apartment renovation and want clarity around approvals, budgeting, or what’s realistically achievable in your building, a quick conversation early on can save a lot of time and stress later.
You can get in touch with us here to talk through your plans, ask questions, or understand what steps make sense for your apartment before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all apartment renovations need strata approval?
Most do, especially if they affect waterproofing, structure, plumbing, or common property.
How long does strata approval usually take?
It depends on the building, but approvals often take several weeks and should be planned into the timeline.
Can I renovate without approval if it’s internal work only?
Not always. Even internal changes can require approval if they affect shared services or building structure.
Why are apartment renovations more complex than house renovations?
Shared spaces, access rules, approvals, and coordination with strata all add extra layers.
