Can You Change Approved Building Plans During Construction?
Building projects do not always proceed exactly as originally planned. An owner may decide they want a larger window, a different internal layout or another change after construction has already started.
However, approved plans cannot simply be treated as a general guide. They form part of the documentation against which the building work is assessed.
Before changing anything shown on the approved plans, it is important to determine whether the proposed change requires updated documentation or further approval.
What Types of Changes May Need to Be Reviewed?
Changes that may need to be assessed include:
- Moving or resizing windows and doors
- Changing internal walls or room layouts
- Altering the building height or roof design
- Changing setbacks or the building footprint
- Modifying structural components
- Changing the intended use of a room or area
- Using different construction materials
- Altering drainage, fire-safety or accessibility details
Even a change that appears minor could affect planning requirements, engineering documentation, the Building Code of Australia or conditions attached to the development consent.
Do Changed Plans Need Further Approval?
The answer depends on the type and extent of the proposed change and how the project was originally approved.
For projects proceeding through a Development Application and Construction Certificate, the change may require amended construction documentation or a formal modification to the development consent. Service NSW advises that changes to construction plans must be assessed and may require an application to modify the original development consent.
A Construction Certificate confirms that the construction plans and specifications are consistent with the development consent and meet the applicable building requirements. A change that makes the building work inconsistent with those documents may therefore need to be addressed before the altered work proceeds.
Projects approved through a Complying Development Certificate must continue to satisfy the relevant complying-development requirements. A proposed change may need to be reassessed to determine whether the project remains eligible.
Do Not Wait Until the Final Inspection
Building altered work first and attempting to resolve the documentation later can create unnecessary complications.
The Principal Certifier must assess the completed work against the relevant approvals and documentation. If the work does not match what has been approved, additional plans, certificates, modifications or rectification work may be required before the project can progress towards an Occupation Certificate.
What Should You Do Before Making a Change?
Before proceeding:
- Pause the part of the work affected by the proposed change.
- Compare the change with the approved plans and consent conditions.
- Discuss it with the builder, designer, engineer or relevant consultant.
- Contact the Principal Certifier before the changed work is completed.
- Obtain any revised plans, supporting documentation or approvals required.
- Make sure the approved documents available on site are updated.
Early communication can help prevent a small design change from becoming a larger certification problem later.
Speak With Certiscope Before Proceeding
Every development is different, and the process will depend on the existing approval and the proposed change.
Certiscope can review the relevant documentation and help clarify the building-certification requirements before altered work proceeds.
Contact Certiscope to discuss your NSW building project.