STEP BY STEP: Understanding NSW Class 2 requirements
Step by Step is the blog of Kate Kerin Interiors. In addition to following some of my clients’ projects, I examine some of the latest issues of interest in the world of interior design.
If you’ve undertaken, or are considering, a renovation in an apartment building in New South Wales, you may have heard the term “Class 2” being used more frequently in recent years. It can sound technical, and perhaps a little intimidating, but it’s an important part of the current regulatory landscape.
Before we go any further, it’s important to be very clear: this blog is intended as a general overview only. Class 2 requirements are part of a legal framework, and every project is different. You should always seek independent professional advice that is specific to your circumstances before proceeding with any works.
With that said, understanding the basics can help you ask the right questions and feel more confident as you begin your project.
What is Class 2?
In Australia, buildings are classified under the National Construction Code (NCC). A Class 2 building is, broadly speaking, a multi-unit residential building where people live above or below each other. In practical terms, this includes most apartment buildings.
Historically, much of the regulatory focus sat with builders and developers. However, following a number of well-publicised building defects across NSW, the state government introduced reforms to improve accountability and construction quality in multi-residential buildings. These reforms are often collectively referred to as the “Class 2 reforms”.
When did these requirements come into effect?
The key legislative changes began to roll out from around 2020 onwards, with the introduction of the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW), along with supporting regulations.
From 1 July 2021, significant parts of the framework came into force. These included requirements for registered design practitioners, declared designs and compliance declarations for certain building elements in Class 2 buildings and buildings with a Class 2 component. These changes fundamentally altered how design documentation is prepared, coordinated and lodged for applicable projects.
How does this affect apartment owners?
If you own a freestanding house, these requirements generally do not apply in the same way. But if you own an apartment and are planning renovation works, particularly those that affect building elements, Class 2 requirements may become relevant.
Examples of works that can trigger additional compliance requirements include:
Structural changes
Waterproofing works, such as bathrooms or laundries
Fire safety systems or elements
Changes that impact building services
Even relatively modest renovations can intersect with these categories, depending on their scope.
For apartment owners, this means that the design and documentation process may be more involved than it was in the past. You may need additional consultants, and there may be requirements for documentation to be prepared, declared and lodged before construction begins.
It also means that engaging the right team early is more important than ever.
Who are the key professionals involved?
One of the most significant shifts under the Class 2 framework is the formal recognition of different design disciplines, and the requirement for certain practitioners to be registered.
While every project will vary, the following professionals are commonly involved:
Registered design practitioners
Under the legislation, certain design work must be carried out or declared by registered design practitioners. These professionals are registered with the NSW government in specific disciplines, such as:
Architectural design
Building design
Structural engineering
Civil engineering
Mechanical, electrical or hydraulic design
Their role is to prepare “declared designs” for regulated building elements and to provide compliance declarations confirming that their designs meet the NCC.
Engineers
Engineers play a critical role where structural, mechanical or services-related changes are involved. For example:
A structural engineer may be required if walls are being removed or altered
A hydraulic engineer may be involved in plumbing or drainage changes
A mechanical engineer may be required for ventilation or air conditioning systems
Their documentation and certification can form part of the declared design process.
Building designers or architects
Depending on the scale and complexity of the project, a building designer or architect may be engaged to develop the overall design and coordinate documentation.
In Class 2 projects, it is important that any required design work is undertaken by a practitioner who is appropriately registered if the legislation requires it. They often act as a central point of coordination between different consultants.
Builders
Builders are also subject to increased obligations under the reforms. Many builders have Class 1 licences, which is perfectly fine for many jobs. But a Class 2 project requires the involvement of a builder with a Class 2 licence.
They are required to:
Build in accordance with declared designs
Provide building compliance declarations
Ensure that regulated work is properly documented and aligned with the approved designs
This reinforces the importance of clear, well-coordinated documentation before construction begins.
Certifiers
An independent certifier assesses whether the proposed works comply with relevant planning and building requirements.
Depending on the project, this may involve:
A Construction Certificate (CC)
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
Certifiers play a key role in reviewing documentation and ensuring that approvals are in place before work proceeds.
Strata and building management
For apartment owners, strata approval remains a critical part of the process. Even where Class 2 requirements apply, you will still need to:
Obtain approval from the owners corporation
Comply with by-laws
Coordinate with building management
Strata committees may also request additional documentation to ensure compliance and protect the building.
Where does an interior designer fit in?
With all of these moving parts, you might be wondering where an interior designer sits within the process.
While interior designers are not typically responsible for producing regulated “declared designs” under the legislation, they can play a valuable and complementary role within the broader project team.
An interior designer can:
Develop the spatial layout and overall design concept
Ensure that the design is both functional and aesthetically resolved
Coordinate finishes, fixtures and fittings
Liaise with consultants to ensure the design intent is maintained
Help identify early where additional consultants may be required
In many cases, an interior designer acts as a bridge between the client and the technical team, helping to translate ideas into a cohesive plan that can then be documented by the relevant registered practitioners.
This is particularly valuable in apartment renovations, where space is often constrained and decisions need to be carefully considered before they are locked into documentation.
Why early planning matters
One of the key takeaways from the Class 2 reforms is the importance of getting things right at the design stage.
Because documentation may need to be declared and lodged before construction begins, late changes can be more complex, and potentially more costly, than they were in the past.
Engaging your team early allows you to:
Resolve design decisions before documentation is finalised
Identify compliance requirements upfront
Avoid delays during approvals
Reduce the risk of rework during construction
Final thoughts
The introduction of Class 2 requirements in NSW represents a significant shift towards greater accountability and quality in apartment construction and renovation.
For homeowners, it can mean a more structured and sometimes more involved process. However, it also provides reassurance that design and construction are being held to higher standards.
The key is to approach your project with good information and the right professional support.
If you’re planning a renovation in an apartment, take the time to understand what may be required, seek independent advice, and assemble a team that can guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
And as always, if you’re unsure where to begin from a design perspective, an initial consultation can help you map out your ideas and understand how they might fit within the broader regulatory framework before you commit to the next steps.
Kate Kerin Interiors works with discerning Sydney clients who value quality, elegance and a seamless design experience, whether you’re downsizing, furnishing a new home or planning a major change. If you’d like to discuss your project, get in touch to book an initial consultation.
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