If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in a strata apartment in Sydney, arranging the right insurance coverage is just as important as getting approvals. Bathroom works involve plumbing, waterproofing, and structural elements—all of which carry risk to both your unit and neighbouring properties. Understanding how strata insurance works during renovations will help you avoid disputes and costly liabilities.
Understand What Strata Insurance Covers
Strata insurance, managed by the owners corporation, typically covers common property—including structural elements, shared walls, and original waterproofing membranes. However, it does not cover renovation works carried out by individual owners.
This means any damage caused during your bathroom renovation—such as water leaks affecting another unit—is usually your responsibility, not the strata’s.
Notify the Strata Manager Before Starting
Before commencing works, you should formally notify your strata manager or committee. This is often part of the approval process under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015.
At this stage, strata may request:
Details of your renovation scope
Contractor licences and insurance certificates
Proposed start and completion dates
Early communication ensures your project aligns with building rules and insurance requirements.
Ensure Your Contractor Has Adequate Insurance
Your builder or bathroom renovation company must carry appropriate insurance, including:
Public liability insurance (typically $10–20 million cover)
Workers compensation insurance
Home building compensation (if applicable)
Always request copies of these certificates before work begins. A reputable Sydney renovation specialist will provide them without hesitation.
Consider Additional Cover (Contract Works Insurance)
For added protection, many homeowners take out contract works insurance. This policy covers damage to your renovation project during construction, including unforeseen events like water damage, fire, or theft.
It’s not always mandatory, but it’s highly recommended—especially in apartment settings where risks can extend beyond your own property.
Check By-Law Requirements
In many strata schemes, bathroom renovations require a by-law that outlines responsibility for future maintenance and damage. This legal document may also include insurance conditions you must meet before starting work.
Final Tip
From experience, the biggest issues arise when owners assume strata insurance will cover everything—it doesn’t. The safest approach is to combine proper strata approval with verified contractor insurance and, where appropriate, your own cover.
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