Sydney's terraces, Federation homes and sandstone cottages are some of its most loved houses. Many are heritage listed or sit in heritage conservation areas, especially in suburbs such as Paddington, Woollahra, Balmain, Glebe and parts of the Eastern Suburbs and Inner West. That does not mean you cannot renovate, but it does change how.
Heritage item or conservation area?
- Heritage item: the property itself is listed in the council's Local Environmental Plan, or on the State Heritage Register.
- Heritage conservation area: the area is protected for its character, so changes visible from the street are controlled even if your house is not individually listed.
Check your property's planning certificate or the NSW Planning Portal to see which applies.
What councils usually accept
- Rear additions that are lower or set back so they do not dominate the original house from the street.
- Internal changes in conservation areas, which are often less controlled than street-facing changes.
- Repairs using matching materials, such as lime mortar, matching bricks and sandstone.
What is usually harder
- Changes to the front facade, roof form and street-facing windows.
- Demolishing original fabric.
- Replacing original details with modern materials that do not match.
Heritage impact statements
Many applications need a Statement of Heritage Impact prepared by a heritage consultant, explaining how the works affect the heritage significance. Talking to council's heritage advisor early, before detailed design, often saves time.
Repairing original fabric properly
Older buildings were built with soft, breathable materials. Repointing with hard cement mortar, sealing sandstone or rendering over damp walls can cause fretting and decay. Heritage repairs use compatible materials and fix the cause of damage, such as rising damp, first.
Heritage builders in Sydney
METCON works on heritage homes, terraces and buildings, including structural repairs and restoration of original fabric. See our heritage restoration service or call 0415 840 500.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renovate a heritage-listed house in Sydney?
Yes, but changes usually need council approval and must respect the heritage significance. Rear additions and internal changes are often more achievable than changes to the street front.
What is a Statement of Heritage Impact?
A report by a heritage consultant explaining how proposed works affect a property's heritage significance, often required with a development application.
Should I use cement mortar on an old brick house?
Generally no. Older brickwork was laid in soft lime mortar, and hard cement mortar can damage the bricks.
