So, you’ve received your architectural drawings—congratulations! This is a significant milestone in your renovation or new home journey. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the process, you’re not alone. Many homeowners this stage in equal amounts both exciting and yet daunting, it’s not a process that most are familiar with.
To help you navigate the next steps with confidence, we’ve broken it down into an easy-to-follow process:
Understand Your Approvals
Before any work can begin, you need to ensure your plans comply with local regulations. In NSW, there are two main approval pathways:
- Development Application (DA): Required for most major renovations or new builds. It involves submitting your architectural plans to your local council for assessment. The process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your project.
- Complying Development Certificate (CDC): A faster alternative if your project meets pre-set standards under the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP). It is approved by a private certifier rather than the council.
What to do:
✅ Check with your architect or builder which approval pathway is required.
✅ Contact your local council or a registered certifier to confirm compliance requirements.
✅ Obtain any additional reports needed (e.g., geotechnical, heritage, or environmental assessments)planningportal.nsw.gov.au
sydneyrenovationshire.com.au.
Engage a Principal Certifier
A Principal Certifier (either council or a private certifier) is responsible for ensuring your build follows the approved plans and meets the Building Code of Australia. They conduct inspections throughout the project and issue the final Occupation Certificate when the work is complete planningportal.nsw.gov.au.
What to do:
✅ Research and appoint a registered certifier.
✅ Understand their fees and inspection schedule.
✅ Ensure your builder is aware of the certifier’s role and requirements.
Get Your Builder Involved
Now that approvals are in motion, it’s time to bring in your builder. This is where construction planning begins, including:
- Pre-construction review: Your builder will assess the drawings, request clarifications, and provide final cost estimates.
- Trade procurement: Ensuring the right subcontractors are engaged at the right time.
- Scheduling: Planning the construction timeline to avoid delays planningportal.nsw.gov.au.
What to do:
✅ Share your architectural drawings with your builder.
✅ Discuss the budget and any provisional sums.
✅ Confirm a realistic timeline for your build.
Secure Your Finances & Insurance
Your lender will require all necessary approvals before releasing funds. Additionally, you may need Home Building Compensation (HBC) insurance if your project costs over $20,000. This protects you in case the builder cannot complete the work.
What to do:
✅ Finalise your loan approvals and ensure funds are ready.
✅ Check your builder has HBC insurance (if required).
✅ Consider additional homeowner’s insurance for protection during the build.
Prepare for Construction
Now, it’s time to get your site ready. This may include:
- Demolition (if required).
- Site preparation (levelling, tree removal, fencing).
- Setting up temporary power and water connections.
Your builder will handle most of this, but you’ll need to stay involved.
What to do:
✅ Ensure you have all necessary approvals before starting work.
✅ Communicate with your builder and certifier regularly.
✅ Stay flexible—unexpected challenges may arise, but a well-planned project will keep things moving.
Starting construction can feel overwhelming, but taking things step by step makes the process manageable. Surround yourself with the right team—your architect, builder, and certifier—and keep communication open. With the proper approvals, planning, and oversight, your dream home will soon take shape!
If you need guidance along the way, feel free to reach out to our team at Steller Group. We’re here to help homeowners navigate their building journey with confidence.
