Frequently Asked Questions

Downtown Building specializes in Inner West Sydney including Leichhardt, Marrickville, Newtown, Balmain, Rozelle, Annandale, and surrounding suburbs to include Redfern, Zetland and Randwick.. We're local experts who understand, council requirements, and neighbourhood specific building challenges.

Downtown Building excels as a custom home builder Inner West Sydney, creating custom homes, extensions, and additions in Leichhardt, Marrickville, Newtown, and Summer Hill. Our in-house designers ensure heritage-compliant designs with 100% Inner West council DA approval. Enjoy fixed-price quotes tailored to your style, with no hidden costs. Book your free consultation today!

Home extension costs vary by size, finishes, and council requirements. Single-story extensions typically range from $3,000-$5,000 per square meter, while second storey additions cost $4,000-$6,000 per square meter. Heritage extensions may cost $5000-$8000 per sqm due to specialised requirements. We provide detailed fixed price custom quotes for your custom build so there is no hidden surprises. All quotes are subject to completely reviewing construction plans, site visits and a personal meet and greet.  

Yes. Downtown Building now offers in-house design services for Inner West and Sydney city homes. Our team manages the entire process of approvals and permits, including:

• Complying Development Certificates (CDC): typically 3 to 5 months
• Development Applications (DA): typically 9 to 12 months
• All necessary building permits for your renovation, extension, or new home

By handling design and approvals in-house, we provide a seamless design and build experience with accurate cost estimates and fewer delays. Once your design and approvals are complete, we provide a detailed quote for constructionbased on your in-house design.

Contact us to arrange a consultation and begin your project with Downtown Building.

Project timelines vary by scope and complexity: bathroom renovations 2-4 weeks, kitchen renovations 3-6 weeks, single-story extensions 3-5 months, double-story extensions 4-6 months. Some time lines may exceed the timeframes due to design, complexity and  holiday periods. Explore your options with Downtown Building by contacting us. 

Downtown Building combines in-house design services with expert construction to deliver a complete design-and-build experience for Inner West and Sydney city homes. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Customer Experience First: We communicate clearly through multiple channels, keeping you informed at every stage.
• Licensed Expertise: Our builder has been licensed since 1998, bringing decades of experience in construction, scheduling, and budget management.
• Integrated Design & Build: Our in-house design team works closely with you and our builders to ensure accurate cost estimates, seamless approvals, and fewer delays.
• Quality Workmanship: We are committed to exceeding expectations through meticulous construction and attention to detail.

We champion your project from concept to completion, ensuring your renovation, extension, or new home runs on time and on budget.

Contact us today for a friendly, no-obligation consultation with our in-house design and construction team.

Most homes in the Inner West fall under heritage conservation areas. That usually means you’ll need a Development Application (DA) through Inner West Council.
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is possible if:

• Your property is not in a heritage zone
• Your design fully meets the strict NSW planning rules

Typical homeowner reaction:
“Okay, so because I’m in the Inner West, it’s probably a DA. At least I know where I stand now.”

Reassurance:
Exactly. Knowing this upfront saves time, money, and stress. A DA isn’t a roadblock,  it’s simply the right path for most Inner West homes, and with the right design approach, approvals are very achievable.

Heritage rules don’t mean you can’t renovate — they simply protect the street character. In most cases, you’ll need to:

• Keep the façade and front visible roofline consistent
• Design sympathetic additions that don’t dominate the street
• At the rear, you can usually add open-plan extensions, second-storey additions, or modern living spaces

Typical homeowner reaction:
“So living in a heritage area doesn’t mean I can’t extend — I just need to respect the front?”

Reassurance:
Exactly. Council supports designs that blend heritage charm with modern living. Think: traditional façade at the front, light-filled extension or addition at the back.

The three main red flags are:

• Overshadowing neighbours’ backyards
• Privacy/overlooking into neighbours’ windows or gardens
• Bulk & scale that feels oversized for the street

These issues often trigger objections, but they can be resolved with smart design.

Typical homeowner reaction:
“Okay, so if we design carefully with setbacks and privacy screens, we should be okay?”

Reassurance:
Exactly. By addressing these concerns upfront, you reduce the risk of objections and make the approval process smoother.

When looking for professionals for your Inner West project, consider the following: 

Architect selection: Look for architects experienced with Development Applications (DA) in your local council area. They should understand local planning controls, heritage overlays, and setbacks to ensure your plans meet council requirements.

Builder experience: Choose a builder with a proven track record in the type of work you want, such as second-storey additions, extensions, or full renovations in the Inner West. Verified past projects and references are helpful indicators.

Heritage expertise: For properties with heritage considerations, work with architects or builders familiar with heritage guidelines and conservation requirements to reduce the risk of DA objections.

Typical homeowner reaction: “So if I pick an architect and builder with the right local experience, my DA and renovation will be smoother?”

Reassurance:
Exactly. Engaging professionals who understand council rules, heritage requirements, and the local building context greatly reduces the chance of delays or objections, and ensures your project runs more efficiently. 

Sustainability in NSW is guided by BASIX, which sets mandatory targets for energy, water, and thermal comfort. In practice:

• Install insulation as specified in your BASIX certificate
• Use energy-efficient glazing and appliances
• Incorporate water-saving fixtures and hot water systems

Typical homeowner reaction: “So I can’t just pick insulation I like — BASIX decides what’s needed?”

Reassurance: Exactly. BASIX ensures your home is eco-friendly, comfortable, and compliant. Your builder follows these targets to deliver results without guesswork.

Yes. Heritage or older homes can be upgraded sustainably while respecting their look:

• Insulate walls and ceilings according to BASIX requirements
• Install discreet high-performance windows or ventilation
• Use water-saving devices that don’t alter heritage features

Typical homeowner reaction: “So my house can be energy-efficient without changing its charm?”

Reassurance: Exactly. Sustainable upgrades maintain character while improving comfort and efficiency.

Proper waterproofing protects insulation and materials from moisture, which impacts energy efficiency:

• Seal wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies
• Ensure drainage prevents water from reaching insulation
• Use professional contractors familiar with Inner West standards

Typical homeowner reaction: “Ah, so waterproofing isn’t just about stopping leaks — it also keeps my energy bills down?”

Reassurance: Exactly. Proper waterproofing helps your home remain comfortable, energy-efficient, and durable.

Yes. Passive House strategies improve comfort and reduce energy use:

• Super-insulated walls, roofs, and floors
• High-performance windows
• Airtight construction with controlled ventilation
• Passive solar heating and cooling

Typical homeowner reaction: “So I could significantly cut energy bills without major lifestyle changes?”

Reassurance: Exactly. Even partial Passive House upgrades can boost energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability while keeping your renovation practical.  You can learn more about this by clicking here https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/passive-  

Solar panels can reduce electricity bills and support BASIX energy targets:

• Size panels to household energy needs
• Ensure roof orientation maximises sunlight exposure
• Combine with energy-efficient appliances for best results

Typical homeowner reaction: “So solar panels really make a noticeable difference?”

Reassurance: Absolutely. They reduce energy consumption, lower bills, and complement other sustainable upgrades while meeting BASIX requirements.

Sustainable materials reduce environmental impact and improve indoor air quality:

• Low-VOC paints and finishes
• Recycled or certified timber
• Energy-efficient lighting and fixtures
• Insulation meeting BASIX energy requirements

Typical homeowner reaction: “So it’s not just about energy — materials matter too?”

Reassurance: Exactly. Every choice, from insulation to finishes, contributes to a healthier, more sustainable, and durable home.