The Inner West, from Balmain and Rozelle to Annandale, Leichhardt, Marrickville, Newtown and Haberfield, is full of Victorian and Federation terraces, semis and workers cottages. They are wonderful homes, but they come with their own building challenges.
Heritage conservation areas
Large parts of the Inner West are heritage conservation areas. Changes visible from the street are tightly controlled, while rear additions and internal works are usually more achievable. Many projects need a DA and a heritage impact statement. See heritage renovations in Sydney.
Party walls
Terraces and semis share a wall with the neighbour. Work affecting the party wall, such as new openings, structural changes, underpinning or raising the wall, needs care, often neighbour consent and engineering, and a dilapidation report on the adjoining home.
Narrow lots and access
Many Inner West homes have no side access. Materials, machinery and spoil often come through the house or via a rear lane. Planning access early affects cost and program.
Damp and old footings
- Rising damp in old brick walls with failed or missing damp courses. See rising damp treatment.
- Shallow or sandstone footings that move on reactive clay.
- Subfloor ventilation blocked by past works.
Original fabric worth keeping
Cornices, fireplaces, timber floors, sandstone and face brick add value. Repairs should use compatible materials such as lime mortar, not hard cement.
Typical Inner West projects
- Rear kitchen and living extensions.
- Attic and first floor additions within heritage controls.
- Structural repairs to cracked walls and failing footings.
- Damp treatment and subfloor repairs.
- Full renovations of terraces and semis.
Inner West builders
METCON builds and restores homes across the Inner West, including heritage and structural work other builders avoid. See our renovation service or call 0415 840 500.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a DA to renovate a terrace in the Inner West?
Often, especially in heritage conservation areas or for works visible from the street. Internal and some rear works may be simpler.
What is a party wall?
A wall shared between two attached homes, such as terraces and semis. Work affecting it usually needs care, engineering and often neighbour consent.
Why do Inner West terraces get damp?
Usually because of failed or missing damp courses, poor subfloor ventilation and drainage issues in old brick walls.
