FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your Questions, Answered

Everything you need to know about working with a licensed Sydney builder. If your question is not here, get in touch and we will answer it personally.

General Questions

What services does METCON provide?

We are a full-service licensed building company in NSW. Our core services include retaining walls, civil and structural works (underpinning, structural remediation, concrete works, formwork and steel fixing), residential construction (extensions, first floor additions, renovations, knock-down rebuilds, granny flats), commercial construction (fitouts, refurbishments, structural upgrades), demolition and excavation, and end-to-end project management.

Is METCON a licensed builder?

Yes. Meteora Constructions Pty Ltd is a fully licensed building and construction company in New South Wales. We hold all required licences and insurances for the work we carry out, including public liability and workers compensation. You can verify our licence through NSW Fair Trading.

What areas in Sydney do you service?

We service all of Sydney and surrounding regions across NSW, including Western Sydney, Northern Beaches, Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, North Shore, Sutherland Shire, Hills District, Blue Mountains, Central Coast, and Wollongong. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, give us a call on 0415 840 500.

Do you provide free quotes?

Yes. We provide free, detailed, itemised quotes for every project. No obligation, no hidden fees. We visit your site, assess the scope of work, and give you a clear picture of what the job involves and what it will cost. Every quote includes a breakdown of materials, labour, and any engineering or council fees.

How long does it take to get a quote?

We aim to respond to all enquiries within one business day. For straightforward projects, we can often provide a quote after an initial phone discussion and site photos. For larger or more complex jobs, we will arrange a site visit before quoting.

Retaining Walls

Do I need council approval to build a retaining wall in Sydney?

It depends on the height and location. As a general guide in NSW: retaining walls under 600mm are usually exempt. Walls between 600mm and 900mm may need a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or Development Application (DA) depending on your local council. Walls over 900mm almost always require a DA, structural engineering drawings, and potentially a geotechnical report. Rules vary between councils, so we always check the specific requirements for your area.

How much does a retaining wall cost in Sydney?

Costs vary based on the wall type, height, length, site access, and soil conditions. As a rough guide for 2026: timber sleeper walls run $250-$450 per square metre, concrete sleeper walls $400-$700/sqm, sandstone walls $600-$1,200/sqm, and engineered reinforced concrete $800-$1,500+/sqm. Additional costs may include excavation, drainage, engineering certification, and council fees. Contact us for a free, accurate quote for your specific project.

What type of retaining wall is best for my property?

The best type depends on your site conditions, height requirements, soil type, budget, and the look you want. Concrete sleeper walls are the most popular in Sydney for their durability and range of finishes. Timber walls are cost-effective for low walls. Sandstone suits heritage areas and natural landscapes. Gabion walls are great for drainage-heavy sites. For walls over 600mm or near boundaries, an engineered solution may be required. We can advise on the best option during a site visit.

How long does it take to build a retaining wall?

A standard residential retaining wall typically takes 3 to 10 working days, depending on the length, height, site access, and whether excavation or engineering is involved. Larger or more complex walls with council approvals may take longer due to the approval process (which can add 4-8 weeks). We provide a realistic timeline with every quote.

Residential Construction

How long does a home renovation take in Sydney?

It depends on the scope. A bathroom renovation might take 3-6 weeks. Kitchen renovations typically run 6-10 weeks. Full home renovations can take 3-6 months. First floor additions and major structural works may take 6-12 months including council approvals. We provide a detailed project timeline with your quote so you know exactly what to expect.

Do I need a DA for a home extension or granny flat?

In many cases, home extensions and granny flats can be approved through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), which is faster than a full DA. However, this depends on factors like your property's zoning, heritage overlays, flood mapping, bushfire risk, and the scope of the proposed work. We handle the approval process and can advise you on the fastest path to getting your project started.

Can I live in my house during renovations?

In most cases, yes. For smaller renovations like bathrooms or kitchens, you can usually stay in the home. For major structural works, first floor additions, or knock-down rebuilds, you may need to move out temporarily. We will advise you on this during the planning stage and do everything we can to minimise disruption.

Process & Costs

What is included in your quotes?

Every METCON quote is fully itemised and includes: scope of work, materials and specifications, labour costs, excavation and site preparation, drainage (where applicable), engineering fees, council application fees, project timeline, and payment schedule. There are no hidden costs. What we quote is what you pay, unless you request changes to the scope.

Do you handle council approvals and engineering?

Yes. We manage the entire process, including coordinating with structural engineers, preparing documentation, lodging Development Applications or Complying Development Certificates, and liaising with council on your behalf. You do not need to deal with council directly — we handle it all.

What payment terms do you offer?

We use a progress payment structure, which means you pay in stages as the work is completed. This is standard practice in the NSW building industry and protects both parties. The exact payment schedule depends on the project size and is outlined clearly in your quote. We never ask for full payment upfront.

What happens if something goes wrong during the build?

Construction can sometimes uncover unexpected issues, especially on older properties or difficult sites. If we encounter something outside the original scope (such as hidden asbestos, unstable soil, or structural defects), we communicate with you immediately, explain the options, and provide a clear cost for any additional work before proceeding. You are never hit with surprise bills.

Demolition & Excavation

Do I need a permit for demolition work?

Yes, most demolition work in NSW requires approval. Internal strip-outs may be exempt in some cases, but partial and full demolition typically require a Development Application or Complying Development Certificate. Additional requirements may include asbestos surveys, waste management plans, and notification to adjoining property owners. We handle all permits and compliance requirements.

Can you remove asbestos?

We coordinate licensed asbestos removal as part of our demolition and renovation services. All asbestos work is carried out by licensed removalists in accordance with SafeWork NSW regulations. If your property was built before 1990, there is a chance it contains asbestos materials, and we always conduct appropriate testing before starting demolition or renovation work.

Still Have Questions?

We are happy to answer any questions about your project. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation discussion.