Are DA Plans Enough for Your Inner West Renovation?

When renovating or extending a home in NSW, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the number of plans and approvals involved. Terms like DA plans, Construction Certificate plans, and Construction Documentation get thrown around — but what do they actually mean, and why do they matter?

If you're thinking about handing your DA plans to a builder and saying “go for it,” this post is for you. Let’s break down the differences and explain why proper construction documentation is essential for a successful, cost-effective build.

1. Development Application (DA) Plans

Purpose: To gain planning approval from your local council.

DA plans are high-level design drawings submitted as part of your Development Application. Their purpose is to demonstrate how your proposed renovation or extension complies with local planning controls and design guidelines.

These plans typically include:

• Site plan and roof plan

• Floor plans and elevations

• Shadow diagrams (if relevant)

• Streetscape and context drawings

• A basic materials schedule or external finishes palette

What they’re not: DA plans are not detailed enough for construction. They don’t include structural, interior, or specification detail — and shouldn’t be used to quote or build a project.

2. Construction Certificate (CC) Plans

Purpose: To satisfy building regulations and gain approval to start construction.

Once your DA is approved, you need a Construction Certificate (or a Complying Development Certificate). This ensures your proposal complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and other relevant regulations.

CC plans typically include:

• Structural details (e.g., beams, footings, roof framing)

• Construction methodology

• Updated plans to reflect any DA conditions

• Energy efficiency (BASIX) and engineering reports

• Fire safety, waterproofing, and other compliance notes

But still not enough: CC documentation is primarily prepared for certifiers — not for builders. These plans often lack the architectural and interior detail needed for construction, quoting, or coordination between trades.

3. Construction Documentation (or "For Construction" Drawings)

Purpose: To guide the builder during construction and enable accurate costing.

These are the most comprehensive and practical set of drawings in your project. They provide the level of detail a builder needs to build efficiently, minimise guesswork, and maintain the design intent.

Typical inclusions:

• Final, dimensioned plans, elevations, and sections

• Detailed construction and joinery details

• Window and door schedules

• Finishes and fixtures schedules

• Electrical and lighting layouts

• Consultant drawings (e.g., structural, hydraulic, civil)

They are often developed in collaboration with your architect, builder, and engineers — making sure every part of the design is coordinated and clearly communicated before the first site visit.

Why You Shouldn't Build Off DA or CC Plans

Building from DA or CC plans might seem like a shortcut — especially if you’re eager to get started. But here’s why it’s a bad idea:

1. Lack of Detail Leads to Assumptions

Neither DA nor CC plans include enough detail for a builder to accurately interpret your design intent. This leads to assumptions, which result in variations, delays, or costly errors on site.

2. Unexpected Costs

Quoting from incomplete documentation often means builders include provisional sums or contingencies — or worse, underquote and issue multiple variations during construction. Either way, you’ll likely end up paying more than you expected.

3. Design Intent May Be Lost

Key design elements — such as joinery layouts, lighting, finishes, and material junctions — are rarely captured in DA or CC drawings. Without thorough documentation, there’s a real risk the end result won’t reflect what you envisioned.

Final Thoughts

If you're investing in a home renovation or extension, quality documentation is one of the best safeguards for your budget, timeline, and end result. Building from DA or CC plans alone might feel like a shortcut — but it often leads to longer build times, cost blowouts, and avoidable disputes.

Engage the right professionals, insist on detailed documentation, and make sure your builder is working from a comprehensive, coordinated construction set.

Need help bridging the gap from planning to build-ready? We provide full documentation packages and collaborate with engineers, certifiers, and builders to ensure your project is ready for construction — no guesswork required. Contact us today