Class 2 Certified Builder for Apartments & Strata Homes in Surry Hills

A unit renovation typically refers to cosmetic or internal updates within a single apartment, such as flooring, lighting, or kitchen upgrades. A full apartment renovation (or major renovation) may involve moving internal walls, upgrading plumbing, and replacing finishes throughout the entire space. In either case, Monument Projects ensures full compliance with NSW law, strata by-laws, and any impact on common property or apartment complex structures.

Apartment owners must first determine whether the proposed renovation work affects common property, such as waterproofing, walls, or shared plumbing. If so, formal strata approval is required—sometimes through an extraordinary general meeting or annual general meeting of the owners corporation. Our team handles this process, ensuring proper documentation, neighbour notifications, and compliance with your building’s specific renovation rules.

It depends. Some internal walls may be load bearing, especially in older full brick apartment buildings common across Surry Hills and Sydney’s inner suburbs. Removing or altering these walls may require structural engineering and council approval. We conduct a full site assessment and feasibility review before any structural changes are made—so you avoid delays, risks, or non-compliance.

Renovation costs vary depending on the scope and condition of your space. A basic kitchen or bathroom upgrade may start from $20,000–$40,000, while a complete unit renovation with high-end finishes could exceed $120,000. We offer fixed-price quotes that include materials, labour, strata coordination, and compliance documentation—so there are no hidden fees. Ask us about cost estimates for recent projects we’ve completed in your area.

If your renovation work affects structural elements, waterproofing, or common property (e.g. floors, balconies, or plumbing), you’ll need formal strata approval—and possibly council approval through a Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC). As a Class 2 Certified Builder, we manage both strata and council processes, ensuring everything is approved, documented, and executed to code.

With clever space planning and smart upgrades, even compact inner-city units can be transformed into a dream home. Our team specialises in tailoring layouts, lighting, and finishes to suit your lifestyle—while respecting heritage elements and building constraints. We help you reimagine tired spaces and bring new life to older apartments, balancing design ambition with compliance and budget.

NSW’s Design and Building Practitioners Act requires that structural and waterproofing work in Class 2 buildings (multi-unit dwellings) be done by registered professionals. Choosing a Class 2 Certified Builder ensures your apartment renovation is legal, insured, and built to meet strict quality standards. We also keep your owners corporation informed and involved, avoiding potential conflicts down the line.

Choosing a renovation contractor isn’t just about price — it’s about trust, compliance, and proven capability. In areas like Surry Hills and Sydney’s inner suburbs, where many homes are apartments or part of strata-managed buildings, it’s essential to work with a builder who understands the complexities of NSW law, local council processes, and strata by-laws. A Class 2 Certified Builder is legally required for structural and waterproofing work in unit renovations and apartment blocks, ensuring your project is insurable and compliant with the Design and Building Practitioners Act.

Experience matters too — not all builders are equipped to handle the challenges of inner-city construction, such as limited access, load-bearing wall modifications, and owners corporation approvals. Ask potential contractors to share recent projects that demonstrate their ability to work in similar settings, whether it’s a full-brick terrace, a compact unit, or a multi-storey apartment complex. Look for signs of solid project management, including clear communication, reliable timelines, and transparent pricing.

Finally, don’t overlook risk protection. Choose a builder who offers fixed-price quotes and contract terms that guard against blowouts and delays. Features like a $500/day delay guarantee show accountability and professionalism. Most importantly, confirm that your contractor handles the entire process — from design coordination and council or strata approval, to final finishes — so you can focus on your dream home while they manage the details.