20/09/2026
BEFORE YOU RENOVATE
“It’s only a renovation.”
That doesn‘t automatically mean approval isn’t required.
In South Australia, whether a renovation or building project requires approval depends on the nature and scope of the proposed work, the property and the applicable planning and building requirements.
Before work begins, it is important to understand:
• What is actually being changed?
• Does the proposal require development approval?
• What planning requirements apply to the site?
• What building requirements apply to the proposed work?
• Are structural changes involved?
• Are there services being relocated or modified?
• Are there site-specific considerations?
This is particularly important when a project involves extensions, structural changes, major alterations or significant changes to the existing building.
A common mistake is to think:
“It‘s my house, so I can just change it.”
Construction doesn’t work that way.
Good builders don‘t just ask:
“How do we build it?”
We also ask:
“What needs to happen before we build it?”
Planning the approval pathway early can help avoid unnecessary delays, redesigns and surprises later in the project.
ALT Construction Group
Adelaide | Renovations | Residential Construction
Approval requirements vary between projects. Always confirm the applicable requirements for your property and proposal.
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