Confirm the planning pathway before the client signs the fitout contract
Half of all NSW commercial fitout disputes start because the planning pathway wasn't confirmed up front. Our $19 Change of Use Check tells you whether the project can use the Codes SEPP cl 5A.6 CDC fast-track, what BCA Class change is triggered, what permits and licences the client also needs — before you quote.
What you assume vs what NSW planning actually does
Three common mismatches between assumption and NSW reality — and how our tools cover them.
“The client says 'we just need a fitout, no planning permit needed'”
Reality: If the use is changing, a DA is almost always required — even if the building shell is unchanged. Different commercial zones permit different uses; different LEP definitions mean different DA thresholds. We classify the change correctly before you quote.
“You assume the BCA Class is unchanged because 'it was a shop before, it's still a shop'”
Reality: Office (Class 5) to retail (Class 6) to restaurant/assembly (Class 9b) — each change triggers different fire safety, accessibility, structural and exit standards. The retrofit costs can run from $50k to $500k. We flag the BCA Class change in the report.
“You scope the project around just the fitout works”
Reality: But the client's full project may need a liquor licence, food business notification, childcare service approval, trade waste consent, signage DA, and a Roads Act 1993 approval for any awning signs. We list the full licence stack so nothing's missed.
NSW tools we recommend for nsw fitout & design-build companies
Each tool is positioned for your specific use case — the right one depends on how committed you are.
NSW Change of Use Check
Pre-quote check of LEP zone permissibility + Codes SEPP CDC pathway + BCA Class change + parking + licence stack. Run before quoting; reduces variation risk.
NSW Signage Check
Compliance check for the client's signage scope — Industry & Employment SEPP 2021, LEP heritage controls, DCP signage chapter, plus the Roads Act 1993 trap for awning signs.
NSW Property Snapshot
Full planning context for the tenancy — zone, overlays, applicable SEPPs, hazard flags. Useful if the client is also considering external alterations.
Ready to add planning intelligence to your work?
$19 + $19 covers the planning + signage clearance for most fitout projects. Run them before you quote. Avoid the variation risk that kills your margin and your client relationship.