One of the best ways to increase your outdoor space’s value is to build a new deck. Regardless of the purpose – be it a peaceful spot for relaxation, a backyard area for entertaining guests by your swimming pool or a place for gathering your family members – the proper installation of a deck is sure to bring value to your home.
However, before you start construction, one question pops up. Is the council approval needed for a deck installation Sydney project?
There are several aspects you need to consider, so that you can understand if the deck installation needs approval and how you can get it.
Is There Any Chance To Build a Deck Without Council Approvals?
Sometimes the answer to this question is “yes”. In New South Wales, some decks can be built without getting approval if they qualify as exempt or complying with development in terms of planning law. Other projects might require prior approval from your local council.
The list of requirements varies depending on the property and the specifics of the planned construction. As every site has its own features, you should not rely on the fact that the construction process of a neighbour’s deck or previous projects has been approved according to the same requirements as yours.
If you are going to install a deck Sydney, it would be better to clarify these issues before starting construction.
What Factors Should You Consider While Checking for Approval
A number of factors may influence whether the deck requires council approvals:
- Height of the Deck – This aspect plays one of the key roles as higher decks usually entail more safety requirements, especially where the installation of the balustrades or stairs is concerned.
- Size of the Deck – A bigger deck may be more challenging in terms of impacting the surrounding landscape or having drainage issues. The dimension of the deck may sometimes become a reason for additional approvals.
- Position of the Deck on Your Property – Aspects like proximity of the deck to the borders of the property or to other buildings may also influence whether the deck needs approval and what type of approval.
- Heritage or Environmental Planning Area – Sometimes additional approvals are needed regardless of the size of the deck due to its location within the particular planning area.
Why the Process of Approval Is Important
Although some people do not want to deal with the approval process and decide to start the construction immediately, this decision can lead to serious consequences.
Construction without council approval can cause enforcement actions against you, the delays during the sale of the property and additional expenses connected with obtaining the necessary documents, modifications of the construction or its demolition.
That is why it is worth taking care of the proper approval of your construction process in advance.
Professional Builders Can Help
Experienced deck builders know about the most common planning requirements in Sydney.
Even though a professional builder cannot substitute the advice of your local council or the private certifier, he or she can detect potential requirements of approval during the planning process.
Also, a builder works closely with designers and other specialists who help the homeowner to complete the necessary documentation when there are approvals.
Working with the experienced company during your deck installation Sydney project can make the whole process easier.
Think About Something Bigger
When installing a deck, people usually consider adding something else to their backyard area. For instance, it can be pergola, fences, landscaping, retaining walls, lights or outdoor kitchens.
It is better to plan all these aspects of the backyard renovation together to achieve a more functional and visually appealing result.
Also, such planning can reduce the number of changes which may require additional approvals in the future.
Considering the long-term plans during the discussion with your contractor will make all your project elements harmonize.
Construct Safely
Obtaining council approval is only a part of a successful deck construction. The proper design and high-quality construction are equally important.
The deck has to be designed to provide proper load bearing and to allow for drainage, ventilation and durability. Also, the balustrades, stairs, handrails and foundations have to be built in accordance with building standards.
Hiring the experienced specialist for your deck installation Sydney project will help you construct the deck which will be both nice to look at and safe to use.
Why It Is Better to Plan Ahead
Often delays happen because of the discovery of the approval requirements during planning.
Consultation with professional builders and understanding of requirements will help you avoid unnecessary delays during construction.
Planning in advance also gives you enough time to complete other steps like choosing of the materials, layout, budget and construction schedule which makes the project more efficient.
Choose the Right Contractor
Not all deck companies provide the same level of professionalism.
Find a contractor which has enough experience in constructing decks in Sydney and who knows local building practices well. Request to show previous projects, to discuss the possibilities of using various materials and to provide a detailed quotation with all items included in it.
The reputable contractor will provide the necessary information honestly, explain the process of construction clearly and help you to understand the approval requirements of your property.
Conclusion
Construction of the deck will turn your outdoor space into a new place for recreation but it is important to understand all planning requirements before the construction process starts. Whether the council approval is needed or not depends on such factors as the height, size and location of the deck and planning controls of your property.
If you are going to install a deck in Sydney, then planning the project ahead and working with the experienced professionals can help you complete your project successfully.