Apartment Renovations in Sydney: Strata Approvals, By-laws and Practicalities
PORT STEPHENS - RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION
Most apartment owners reach the same point when planning a renovation…you know what you want to change but you are not sure what strata will allow. It is the grey zone between personal ownership and shared responsibility.
This is where clear guidance matters. At Kaiko Design Interiors we regularly support clients through strata requirements before design begins. When approvals and building logistics are understood upfront the renovation becomes calmer and easier to manage.
Here is what you need to know before you begin.
Understanding the Strata Landscape
Strata law manages collective ownership within apartment buildings and governs what parts of your home you can alter. Although the interior feels entirely yours some elements including walls, floors, plumbing and windows may belong to the building as common property.
DOUBLE BAY - RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION
Strata approval exists to:
Protect the structure of the building.
Maintain waterproofing and acoustic performance.
Ensure all works meet safety standards.
Manage shared access and services.
A renovation progresses smoothly when both design and documentation respect this shared framework.
What Needs Approval
Each building has its own by-laws but most renovations fall into three clear categories.
1. Cosmetic Works
Simple updates that do not affect common property.
Painting replacing curtains updating internal hardware.
No formal approval required.
2. Minor Renovations
Works that alter fixed surfaces or finishes.
Approval from the strata committee is usually required.
Examples include:
New flooring - an approved acoustic underlay is needed for flooring changes.
Kitchen updates within the existing layout.
Minor plumbing or electrical adjustments.
New internal doors or cabinetry.
3. Major Works
Projects that affect structure waterproofing or services.
These require a by-law passed at a general meeting.
Examples include:
Full bathroom renovations.
Removing or modifying walls - this now triggers a an approval process either a Development Application or a CDC (complying development certificate)
Re-routing plumbing.
Electrical updates.
Any work affecting the slab or membrane.
Documentation Strata Committees Expect
Strata approvals move faster when documentation is complete. Committees often request the following:
A detailed scope of works.
Plans and elevations.
Specifications for materials and fixtures.
Waterproofing information.
Acoustic certification for flooring.
Licences and insurances.
Waste and access management.
Clear documentation is one of the reasons clients engage a designer early. It creates certainty for everyone involved.
Learn more about the The Interior Design Process here.
EXAMPLE: ELEVATION PLANS
Practical Considerations Before You Begin
Apartment renovations involve additional building logistics that influence timing and cost.
Access and Lift Management
Many buildings require lift bookings and set delivery windows.
Noise Rules
Strata by-laws often restrict noisy works to certain hours.
Waste Removal
Rubbish must be handled according to building procedures.
Older Buildings
Mid century buildings may include asbestos older plumbing stacks limited floor build ups or sensitive electrical systems.
Design needs to adapt to these conditions.
How can a designer help?
Strata is not a barrier to good design. It simply requires structure and knowledge. A designer experienced in apartment renovations can:
Prepare strata ready documentation.
Liaise with building managers
Anticipate approval pathways
Coordinate trades
Protect the design vision throughout construction
At Kaiko Design Interiors this support is integrated from the first stage of the project.
Case Study — Danks Street Apartment
Located within an award winning BKH and SJB building, this apartment renovation case study shows how subtle upgrades can significantly improve a space within a strata environment. Updated lighting and refined kitchen finishes refreshed the interior without structural changes and the curated mix of furniture and collected pieces demonstrates how design impact can be achieved through thoughtful layering.
DANK STREET APARTMENT - RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION
Ready to Renovate Your Apartment?
If you are planning an apartment renovation in Sydney we can guide you through strata approvals design documentation and on site coordination for a calm and confident project. Strata conditions do not limit creativity. They simply shape a more thoughtful approach.