Renovations & Alterations

Planning to update your apartment? Whether you’re painting a wall or remodelling a kitchen, all renovation work at Paddington Central must follow the building’s by-laws and NSW strata law.

Renovations are classified into three types – Cosmetic, Minor, and Major – each with different approval requirements.


1. Cosmetic Work

No approval required, but you must ensure that work:

  • Does not affect common property
  • Is completed safely and without disruption to other residents

Examples:

  • Painting internal walls
  • Installing curtains, blinds, or internal hooks
  • Filling cracks or holes
  • Installing internal window coverings

💡 You do not need approval for cosmetic work, but please notify Building Management if any deliveries or short-term access is required.


2. Minor Renovations

Strata Committee approval is required.
Minor renovations may affect common property but are generally non-structural.

Examples include:

  • Kitchen or laundry updates (excluding waterproofing)
  • Installing timber or new flooring
  • Recessed lighting or ceiling fans
  • Wall-mounted air conditioning units
  • Replacing built-in joinery

To apply:

  • Submit a Minor Renovation Request Form to the Building Manager
  • Include plans, specifications, contractor licences, and noise/impact details
  • Do not start work until written approval is granted

🛠️ The Owners Corporation may attach reasonable conditions to your approval.


3. Major Renovations

Require a special resolution at a general meeting and usually a by-law.

These works:

  • Affect the structure, waterproofing, or external appearance
  • Include changes to plumbing, windows, balconies, walls, or slabs

Examples:

  • Bathroom renovations involving waterproofing
  • Replacing windows or external doors
  • Installing external awnings or privacy screens
  • Reconfiguring layouts or moving structural walls

To proceed:

  • Contact the Building Manager to confirm whether your work qualifies
  • Submit detailed documentation and allow time for your proposal to be tabled at a general meeting
  • If approved, a by-law may be registered on title

Building Rules for All Renovations

  • Work hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm (no weekends or public holidays)
  • All contractors must be licensed and insured
  • Lifts must be protected – Building Management will install protective curtains where required
  • No use of common bins for construction waste – all rubbish must be removed offsite
  • Any damage to common property is the resident’s responsibility to repair

Quick Steps to Start

  1. Identify your renovation type (Cosmetic, Minor, or Major)
  2. Contact the Building Manager at paddingtoncentral@excelbm.com.au to request the relevant form
  3. Submit plans and required information for approval
  4. Wait for written approval before beginning any work

Undertaking unapproved works is a breach of Paddington Central’s by-laws and NSW strata law and may result in penalties or orders to reinstate the property.