Demolition Approval Experts
About Demolition Approvals in NSW
As Building Certifiers, we regularly assist clients through the demolition approval process in New South Wales. Before any demolition work can begin, the correct approval pathway must be established—whether the project is exempt, qualifies for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), or requires a full Development Application (DA) to council.
In most cases, we are able to issue a CDC for demolition, provided the site is not heritage-listed and the proposal meets the strict criteria set out in the Codes SEPP. Our role is to ensure that your application is assessed against the relevant planning controls and building regulations, including compliance with Australian Standard 2601–2001 for demolition of structures, asbestos management requirements, and all associated safety standards.
Your Local Building Certifiers
As trusted certifiers across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Hunter, and the South Coast, NHC Group proudly services projects spanning metropolitan, coastal, and regional NSW. From Sydney’s urban centres through to Gosford and Wyong, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, and further south to Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma, we bring a wealth of local knowledge and tailored solutions to every project.
Our deep understanding of varying council requirements across these regions allows us to deliver a seamless and efficient certification process. With extensive experience, we identify compliance issues early and provide proactive guidance to resolve challenges upfront, ensuring your project progresses smoothly without costly delays.
When you partner with NHC Group, you gain the support of a team renowned for expertise, reliability, and exceptional customer service. From initial assessments to final approvals, we are by your side every step of the way; navigating regulations, safeguarding compliance, and helping your project succeed across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Hunter, and the South Coast.
Further Information about Demolition Approvals
If you’re planning to carry out residential demolition work in NSW, it’s important to know that formal approval is required before any work can begin.
In most cases, demolition can be approved through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) issued by a Registered Certifier, rather than lodging a full Development Application (DA) with council. A CDC is effectively your demolition permit, providing a faster and more streamlined approval pathway under the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.
At NHC Group, we specialise in fast and efficient demolition approvals across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Hunter, and the South Coast. Our certifiers manage the process from start to finish, ensuring your application meets all regulatory requirements while keeping your project on track.
In Sydney metropolitan areas, a 14-day pre-approval notification period may apply, requiring council and certain neighbours to be informed before the CDC can be issued. This step doesn’t apply in regional NSW or in new residential release areas, meaning approvals can often be determined much more quickly. Once a CDC is issued, it is valid for five years from the date of approval.
Before demolition work begins, the owner must also notify neighbours—at least 7 days in metro Sydney or 2 days in rural and regional areas. Our team ensures you’re across all of these requirements so that there are no surprises along the way.
With our extensive experience and advanced certification systems, NHC Group delivers one of the most efficient demolition approval services in NSW. Whether you’re removing an existing dwelling or filling in a swimming pool, we provide the expertise and guidance to make the process simple and stress-free.
Contact NHC Group today to get started on your demolition approval.
Tell us about your Demolition Project
Have a project in mind? Please provide detailed information regarding your project, such as property location, and any relevant documentation. Supplying accurate details at this stage assists our team in assessing your project efficiently and ensuring compliance with all applicable requirements.
Planning to build?
Learn more about our building certification services below
Core Services
The Private Certification process allows an appropriately qualified Accredited Certifier who is an independent party from the owner and builder to carry out building approvals and inspections and will ensure that building approvals, certifications and inspections comply with legislative requirements.
We pride ourselves on our efficient processing of applications and commitment to always exceed the expectations of our clients.
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A Construction Certificate is required after a Development Application (DA) is issued and before any works are carried out on site. The proposal must comply with the Building Code of Australia and conditions of consent must be satisfied prior to issuing.
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A Complying Development Certificate is a combined planning and construction approval that is legislated by the NSW Government. It can be issued directly by a Private Certifier without the need of going through the Council for a Development Application Approval. The proposal must meet the NSW Housing Code Criteria and comply with the Building Code of Australia to be considered under CDC.
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An Occupation Certificate authorises the use and occupation of a new building and confirms compliance of the built structure to approved plans, conditions and government legislation. It is issued upon completion of construction of the structure after all mandatory inspections have been completed and any supporting document provided to the Principal Certifying Authority.
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Item descriptionOur Principal Certifier Services involve undertaking mandatory critical stage inspections throughout a development to ensure all standards and requirements are being met.
It is also possible to replace your current Principal Certifier, you can learn more via the Fair Trading website. -
Not all projects can be considered under Complying Development, we therefore can complete a preliminary assessment on your design (where relevant documents have been provided) to confirm compliance with current legislation.
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A BCA (Building Code of Australia) report is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates a building's compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian standards. The report provides an in-depth analysis of a building’s design and construction, ensuring that it meets the minimum safety, health, sustainability, and accessibility standards set by the BCA.
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A Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate is a legal requirement in NSW, confirming that your pool or spa meets all safety regulations outlined in the Swimming Pools Act 1992. Our certified inspectors ensure your pool complies with safety barriers, fencing, gates, and other safety features. A Compliance Certificate is essential when selling or leasing a property with a pool, helping you meet legal obligations and enhance safety for pool users.
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We offer compliance consultations to assist you in all areas of Building Certification and Compliance.
Please note that this service is strictly offered for projects that NHC Group is not the certifying authority.
Understanding the difference between CDC & DA
When planning building work, one of the first decisions is whether your project can be approved through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or if it requires a Development Application (DA). Understanding the difference is important, as the approval pathway you choose will affect both the timeframes and level of assessment involved. For some projects, a CDC provides a fast, straightforward option, while for others, the DA process through council is the only available route.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is designed to streamline the approval process for straightforward, low-impact development that meets predetermined planning and building standards. These standards are outlined in State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs), and cover specific requirements such as setbacks, building height, site coverage, and environmental considerations. If a proposal satisfies all the criteria, approval can be obtained far more quickly than through a traditional council process—often within days. A CDC can be issued either by your local council or by an accredited private certifier, such as NHC Group.
A Development Application (DA), on the other hand, is required when a proposed development does not meet the strict parameters of a CDC or when the work is more complex or sensitive in nature. A DA is lodged directly with the local council and involves a broader and often more detailed assessment against council planning controls, local environmental plans (LEPs), and development control plans (DCPs). The DA process may include referrals to other government authorities, neighbour notification, and in some cases, public consultation. Because of this, assessment and approval timeframes are significantly longer than for a CDC, and conditions of consent are typically more extensive.
Residential Development Types
Dwellings
Granny Flats
Villas & Townhouses
Retaining Walls
Alterations & Additions
Townhouses
Rural Sheds
Dual Occupancy
Swimming Pools
Awnings & Pergolas
Demolition
Carports & Garages
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Office Locations
We’re proud to operate from several convenient office locations to better serve our clients. Our offices in Sydney & Ulladulla help us stay close to the communities we work with, while our new office in Narooma allows us to extend our services to the Far South Coast. These locations enable us to provide prompt and efficient support to homeowners, builders, and industry professionals, ensuring we meet your needs while staying aligned with local regulations and standards.
