Both large and small home extensions in Perth can require building permits – it really comes down to the scope of work involved. More often than not, laundry renovations will require a permit in Perth. While the laundry is often one of the smaller rooms in a house, laundry renovations can involve a lot of structural, plumbing, and electrical work – with much of this work requiring a permit with the local WA council.
When Is a Permit Needed for a Laundry Renovation in Perth?
In accordance with the City of Perth, all renovations or extensions of a property require council approval.
Each project is assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine if a permit is required or not.
Laundry renovations generally require a permit in Perth, especially if structural work is involved and/or if any alterations to the plumbing system is needed. Permits are applied for and given at a local council level – which means that you’ll need to put forward an application for your local council to approve.
What Is Considered Structural Work for a Laundry Renovation?
Structural work refers to any work that affects the structural integrity of the home. Structural work includes moving walls, changing where windows or doors are located, or extending outwards or upwards – basically anything that changes the foundations of the home.
For example, a simple extension like expanding the laundry to claim unused space from the external, side, or back of the house, will have an impact on the home’s structure. Adding an extension will mean altering load bearing sections, which can change the weight or pressure of the home’s walls and foundations.
Plumbing Work for a Laundry Renovation?
In most cases, plumbing work is needed for laundry renovations. Laundry renovations usually involve redesigning the existing plumbing system, which requires a licensed plumber to undertake. A licensed plumber will look at any technical considerations and install any plumbing needed to ensure the new system works properly and safely.
If the laundry renovation plans are purely cosmetic and do not make any changes to the plumbing system, a council permit may not be required. For example, if only the laundry sink tap is replaced – the plumbing system is not changed and a permit won’t be required.
Permit Required for Laundry Renovations in Perth
According to the City of Perth, the most common forms required for home renovations are:
- Building Permit – Certified (BA1): Mainly required for commercial buildings (Class 2 to 9), however, may be relevant to some residential dwellings and incidental structures under Classes 1 and 10. Certified permits have a processing time of 10 days from when application is submitted.
- Building Permit – Uncertified (BA2): Applied only to residential dwellings and incidental structures. Uncertified permits have a 25 day processing time, or if additional information is required, a letter will be sent at 21 days to request more information.
- Building Approval Certificate (BA13): Generally used for residential dwellings or incidental structures, a BA13 permit is to obtain approval for unauthorised work or to confirm compliance with building standards.
In many instances, the builder or tradesperson you’re working with can determine which permits are required and cover the paperwork for you.
Do I Need a Permit for Strata Laundry Renovations?
Renovating a laundry in a strata property must adhere to the specific by-laws of the strata title – making it a little bit more difficult than a non-strata property.
The strata title will cover what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to renovations, as well as what permit requirements may be needed under the specific building’s classification and circumstances under the Building Act. This means that one strata property may need a general occupancy permit (BA10), while another strata property will need a general building approval certificate (BA14).
There are more limitations on strata properties due to the consideration of other tenants. For example, if the laundry shares a wall with another tenant’s property, their property may be affected by factors including structure or noise.
Just like non strata properties, laundry renovations in a strata property which involves only minor cosmetic changes, like replacing the sink tap or cabinet doors, won’t need approval.
What Happens if I Don’t Submit a Permit?
If you are 100% confident that you do not need a permit for your renovation – nothing will happen. However, if your renovation does require a permit and you don’t have one, you could be faced with serious legal consequences if found guilty of illegal conduct.
The City of Perth states that the building approval is solely the applicant’s responsibility to submit and acquire before any renovations take place. Fines can be from $50,000 to $100,000, and for subsequent offences, possible imprisonment time up to 12 months.
If you’re unsure whether or not you need a permit – seek approval from your council to be on the safe side. Or, talk to your renovation company and they’ll guide you through the process of applying with your council.
How to Apply for Council Approval in Perth
Confirm any permit requirements needed before proceeding with your laundry renovation. You can apply for permits directly through the Council of Perth website by downloading the documents – provided you already know what permits to apply for.
Alternatively, most laundry renovation services in Perth, like Venaso Selections, will assist you by applying for any permits needed for your renovations on your behalf – ensuring that your laundry renovations run seamlessly and safely.
We can help you with any renovation, big or small kitchen renovations in Perth, laundry makeovers and more.