A kitchen renovation is a huge project – almost every local council in Perth will have their own requirements for getting approval for a kitchen renovation. For major kitchen renovations, proceeding without the right permits can see you land a hefty penalty. However, a renovation alone does not always mean submitting a request – particularly if the updates are purely cosmetic.
So, let’s get into the weeds of what constitutes a major house extension and renovation, when you need to get a building permit, and how to check with your local council on the requirements for approval.
When Do Kitchen Renovations Need a Building Permit?
Kitchen renovations will require a building permit when one or more of the following occur:
Structural changes to the property: this may include removing load bearing walls, changing doors, or altering the existing layout of the property.
Major plumbing or electrical work: kitchen renovations may require significant updates to the plumbing or electrical systems in the house – both of which will require approval.
Minor renovations such as updating bench tops, replacing appliances, updating fittings, and other minor cosmetic changes may not require a permit.
Each case is unique. When you work with a kitchen renovation company or builder, they will be able to provide you with advice and a kitchen renovation checklist that is specific to the nature of your project. Undertaking major kitchen renovations without the necessary planning and council approvals can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. If you’re going it alone with a DIY kitchen renovation, then it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek advice from a licenced builder before proceeding.
When Structural Changes Are Made
Structural changes refer to any fundamental and significant modifications to the structure of a building.
If the renovation involves making changes to the layout of the kitchen, removing or adding walls, or modifying windows or door placement – the structure of the building will be altered – where structural changes are made, most local councils across Perth will require a building permit.
Plumbing & Extensive Electrical Work
Kitchen renovations involving plumbing or extensive electrical work are more likely to require building approval.
All plumbers and electricians in Perth hold a ‘Plumbers Licence’ or ‘Electrical Licence’ granted by the Plumbers Licensing Board and EnergySafety WA. This ensures the work they do is in compliance with fire codes, proper installation of electrical and plumbing systems, and adhere to zoning laws.
If any plumbing and electrical work, especially rerouting pipes and wiring, is executed poorly or without following relevant codes and regulations – it could cause functional issues and, in some cases, hazardous consequences.
If It’s a Heritage-Listed Home
In the case of heritage listed homes, there are further regulations around how and what can be renovated.
Heritage significance is assessed on historic and aesthetic values and any new additions must retain the ‘integrity’ of the original building – therefore, proposals for renovating heritage listed kitchens, bathrooms and laundries are considered with sensitivity to the history and environment of the original building.
Any minor or major work done on heritage listed homes require prior planning approval, and for major changes – you will have to go through a heritage consultant to ensure renovations abide by the Heritage Council’s policies and guidelines.
What About Approval for Renovating a Strata Property?
Renovating your kitchen in a strata-titled property comes with its own considerations and regulations.
Because the renovations on your property can have an impact on another property – typically, you’ll need approval from the Council of your strata company along with your building permits.
Cosmetic changes that don’t affect the structure of your property, require waterproofing, change tiling, alter plumbing or electrical, will still need to be checked with your body corporate.
Strata laws are strict, and approval depends on individual by-laws which vary by property. Before understanding renovations, understand what strata titles your property is in and if there are boundaries.
What Permits Are Needed for a Kitchen Renovation in Perth?
The two main building permits needed for a kitchen renovation in Perth include:
- Building Permit Certified (BA1), which is required for any work to be carried out and takes within 10 business days to be processed.
- Building Permit Uncertified (BA2), which only applies for residential dwellings and incidental structures. This permit has a 25 business day processing time.
How to Apply for Building Approval for Perth Renovations
To apply for a building approval, download and fill out the building permit you need and submit it to the City of Perth.
The fee for a Certified Building Permit (BA1) is 0.09-0.09% of the estimated value of the building, and an Uncertified Building Permit (BA2) is 0.32% of the building’s estimated value. The minimum fee for either building application is $110.
Minor kitchen renovations, such as cosmetic changes or utility fittings, don’t need a permit from the council, whereas major kitchen renovations that involve structural changes and extensive plumbing and electrical work, do require a permit.
If the application process seems a little confusing – speak to your kitchen renovation service provider in Perth. They will determine what is required based on your kitchen renovation plans and submit the application on your behalf. Book in for a consultation to discuss all home projects including kitchen, laundry or bathroom renovations in Perth.