There’s nothing like the excitement of transforming a home. Whether it’s adding a beautiful new alfresco area, converting the garage, or updating your layout to suit modern living, renovating can make your space more functional, enjoyable, and valuable.
But amid the fun of design choices and building plans, there’s one crucial thing not to overlook….council approval.
Many homeowners, and even some buyers, don’t realise the potential risks and legal implications of completing or purchasing a home with unapproved building work. That’s where understanding approvals and knowing how to get help can make all the difference.
What Are Council Approvals (and When Are They Needed)?
In Western Australia, building approvals or permits are required for most structural changes to a property. This includes things like home extensions, internal wall removals, structural renovations, granny flats or studio conversions, and carports, patios, and sheds.
These approvals ensure that all work is done in line with the National Construction Code, is safe, and meets local council requirements.
On the other hand, small cosmetic updates, like painting, replacing cabinetry, or updating flooring, generally do not require pre-approval. If in doubt, always check with your local council or seek professional advice.
What is a Retrospective Approval?
A retrospective approval is council approval that’s granted after building work has already been completed. This situation often arises when previous owners completed renovations without applying for the correct permits, or when the current owner wasn’t aware approval was needed at all. Some common examples of unapproved works include:
- Home extensions
- Carports or garages
- Pergolas and verandahs
- Internal structural modifications
- Detached studios or granny flats
If you’ve discovered unapproved works on a property you own, or are considering buying a property with unknown additions, seeking retrospective approval is essential.
The Risks of Unapproved Building Work
Unapproved work can cause major headaches for homeowners and buyers. It’s not just a box-ticking exercise, there are real risks involved, including:
Council Fines or Demolition Orders | Local councils can issue fines or require non-compliant structures to be removed.
Insurance Issues | Insurance policies may not cover damage or liability related to unapproved structures.
Difficulty Selling | Future buyers may pull out of a sale, or banks may not approve finance if work is non-compliant.
Unexpected Rectification Costs | You may be required to engage a builder, engineer, or surveyor to bring the work up to code – at your expense.
How Can Home Integrity Help?
A Home Integrity’s Retrospective Approval Inspection will provide you with a detailed, independent inspection that identifies what works have been completed and whether they are likely to require council approval. Our experienced Building Inspectors help homeowners to:
- Understand what’s compliant and what’s not
- Prepare for retrospective approval applications
- Avoid nasty surprises if you’re buying or selling
- Navigate the process with guidance and confidence
Renovate (or Buy) with Confidence
Whether you’re about to renovate or you’ve just discovered your dream home comes with a “surprise” extension, make sure you’re covering your bases.
Getting the right advice and understanding your property’s approval status can save you time, stress, and money. At Home Integrity, we help WA homeowners and buyers make informed, confident decisions, whether it’s before the work begins or long after it’s done.
Ready to find out if your home is compliant? Book an inspection with our expert team or give us a call today.
