What’s considered “minor works” under NSW building codes? (Bathroom | Building & Approvals)

When planning a bathroom renovation in Sydney, it’s important to understand what is considered “minor works” under NSW building codes, because this classification affects whether you need a Development Approval (DA), Complying Development Certificate (CDC), or just can proceed without formal approvals. Sydney homeowners often assume any bathroom upgrade is minor, but under the Home Building Act 1989, National Construction Code (NCC), and NSW Fair Trading regulations, the definition of minor works is very specific. Knowing the distinction can save homeowners time, money, and prevent costly legal or compliance issues.

1. Definition of Minor Works under NSW Building Codes

In NSW, minor works are renovations or alterations that are low risk, do not affect structural integrity, do not significantly change plumbing or electrical systems, and typically do not require formal council approval or a licensed certifier.

According to NSW planning and building regulations, minor works usually include:

1. Cosmetic or non-structural changes, such as:

   • Replacing tiles, flooring, or wall linings.

   • Repainting walls or ceilings.

   • Installing new cabinetry or vanity units.

2. Simple fixture upgrades, including:

   • Replacing taps, sinks, or toilets with similar size and layout.

   • Installing shower screens or mirrors.

   • Replacing bathtubs without altering drainage lines.

3. Small-scale plumbing or electrical work that does not require structural modifications:

   • Tap or shower replacement using existing pipework.

   • Installing exhaust fans or under-cabinet lighting within existing circuits (licensed electrician required).

4. Minor adjustments that do not impact building compliance:

   • Changing lighting layout within the same zone.

   • Adding towel rails, hooks, or storage accessories.

Key principle: Minor works do not alter the building’s structural elements, floor plans, or compliance with NCC, fire safety, or wet area standards.

2. When Bathroom Work is No Longer “Minor”

In Sydney, bathroom works are no longer considered minor if they involve:

• Structural alterations: Removing or moving walls, changing floor joists, or altering load-bearing elements.

• Major plumbing work: Installing new water or sewer lines, changing pipe sizes, or relocating fixtures significantly.

• Electrical upgrades: Installing new circuits, relocating switchboards, or adding high-power equipment.

• Wet area expansions: Converting part of a hallway or adjoining room into a bathroom.

• DA or CDC triggers: Any changes affecting fire egress, ventilation, or NCC compliance.

If any of these apply, the work requires either a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) for minor but regulated developments, or a Development Approval (DA) for larger projects.

3. NSW Compliance Requirements for Minor Works

Even when a bathroom renovation is classified as minor:

1. Licensed Trades Requirement

   • In NSW, any work over $1,000 must be completed by a licensed tradesperson.

   • Plumbing work must be performed by a NSW licensed plumber, and electrical work by a licensed electrician.

2. Australian Standards Compliance

   • Wet areas must comply with AS 3740: Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas.

   • Plumbing must meet AS/NZS 3500 standards.

   • Electrical installations follow AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules).

3. Documentation

   • Minor works still require compliance certificates for plumbing, waterproofing, or electrical upgrades.

   • Retaining invoices, certificates, and warranties is recommended for insurance and resale purposes.

4. Insurance and Warranty

   • Even minor works should be covered by public liability and contractor insurance.

   • Home Warranty Insurance may not be mandatory for minor work under $20,000 but is recommended for added protection.

4. Examples of Minor Bathroom Works in Sydney Homes

Cosmetic Upgrades:

• Replacing floor or wall tiles without moving plumbing.

• Installing new vanity cabinets or mirrors.

• Repainting walls or ceiling.

Fixture Upgrades:

• Replacing taps, showers, or toilet suites in the same position.

• Installing new shower screens, towel rails, or storage units.

• Installing grab rails or accessible fittings without changing structural layout.

Small Plumbing or Electrical Work:

• Connecting new taps or showerheads to existing pipework.

• Adding a bathroom exhaust fan within the existing vent.

• Installing LED lighting in existing circuits.

These types of works are generally considered minor because they do not require council approval but must still be carried out by licensed professionals and meet Australian Standards.

5. Why Minor Works Still Require Compliance Attention

Even for minor bathroom renovations in Sydney, homeowners should ensure:

1. Waterproofing Certificates:

   • Tiles and wet areas must be waterproofed correctly, even if it’s just a tile replacement.

   • Non-compliance can lead to leaks, mould, and insurance issues.

2. Plumbing Certificates:

   • Even simple tap or toilet replacement requires a certificate of compliance from a licensed plumber.

3. Electrical Certificates:

   • Adding or replacing lighting or exhaust fans requires certification from a licensed electrician.

4. Documentation:

   • Keep all invoices, compliance certificates, and warranty documents in case of insurance claims, future renovations, or property resale.

6. Council and Strata Considerations in Sydney

Even if a bathroom project is minor:

• Strata Approval: In apartment complexes, minor works may still require strata committee approval.

• Council Notification: Cosmetic work generally doesn’t require DA or CDC, but plumbing, structural, or electrical changes might.

• Occupancy and Compliance Checks: If the bathroom affects wet areas that impact other units (leaks, drainage), councils or private certifiers may request inspections.

Understanding these nuances helps homeowners avoid disputes and ensures that even minor renovations comply with NSW building codes.

7. Benefits of Knowing the “Minor Works” Classification

• Saves Time and Money: Avoids unnecessary DA or CDC applications for low-risk projects.

• Ensures Compliance: Confirms that even minor works meet AS standards and NCC rules.

• Protects Insurance: Certified work avoids disputes if damage occurs later.

• Simplifies Documentation: Helps homeowners maintain proper records for future property sales or renovations.

8. Tips for Sydney Homeowners on Minor Bathroom Works

1. Verify Contractor Licensing: All plumbing and electrical work, even minor, must be done by licensed NSW tradespeople.

2. Check Scope: Ensure the work doesn’t involve structural or major plumbing changes.

3. Document Compliance: Keep certificates for waterproofing, plumbing, and electrical work.

4. Strata Consultation: For apartments, confirm approval from the strata committee even for minor works.

5. Follow Australian Standards: AS 3740 for wet areas, AS/NZS 3500 for plumbing, AS/NZS 3000 for electrical work.

By following these tips, homeowners can confidently undertake minor bathroom renovations in Sydney with legal compliance, safety, and quality assurance.

9. Conclusion

In Sydney, “minor works” under NSW building codes are small-scale, low-risk bathroom renovations that do not involve structural changes, major plumbing, or electrical alterations. Typical examples include:

• Cosmetic upgrades such as tiles, paint, and vanities.

• Simple fixture replacements like taps, toilets, and shower screens.

• Minor plumbing or electrical work within existing layouts.

Even minor works require licensed tradespeople, compliance with Australian Standards, and proper documentation. Understanding what qualifies as minor allows homeowners to save on approvals while ensuring safety, insurance coverage, and future resale value.

Visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information about kitchen, bathroom and house renovation services from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.