Renovation Approval Checklist

Getting Body Corporate Approval for Renovations

In a strata or community title scheme, any work that affects common property or the structural elements of the building requires body corporate approval before you start. This includes changes to external walls, balconies, structural flooring, plumbing within walls, and anything that affects shared building systems. Starting work without approval can result in orders to restore common property at your own cost, disputes with the committee, and complications when you later sell.

The approval process varies by state and the nature of the works, but it typically requires a written application, drawings or specifications, contractor details, and evidence of public liability insurance. The committee must assess the application within the timeframes set by their state's strata legislation - usually 28 to 42 days.

Before starting, check your building's by-laws for any specific renovation rules, and confirm with your body corporate manager whether your intended works are cosmetic (typically no approval needed) or structural/common property (approval required).