Do I need strata approval to replace an old AC unit in my Sydney apartment in 2025?
Short answer: in most buildings, yes — you should assume you need strata approval to replace an old AC unit in your Sydney apartment in 2025, especially if any part of the system touches common property, balconies, walls or roof space.
⚡ Quick 60-second verdict
Most of the time, you will need:
- Strata approval for like-for-like AC replacement if the outdoor unit is on a balcony or rooftop (common property or visible from outside).
- Formal approval (often a minor renovation) if you’re upgrading to new reverse cycle air conditioning Sydney systems or changing locations.
- Clear evidence that the new unit meets noise, drainage and wiring compliance so the owners corporation can sign off.
Sometimes a simple indoor-only swap may be treated as very low-impact work, but you should never assume “no approval needed” without checking your strata by-laws, because rules differ between schemes.
1. Introduction & first impressions
Hook: a “simple” changeover that isn’t so simple
On paper, replacing an old split system looks easy: pull the old one out, put the new one in, and enjoy cooler summers. In reality, many Sydney owners only discover the strata approval for air conditioner replacement rules after they’ve already booked the installer.
That’s when the emails start: “Is this a cosmetic change?”, “Is it a minor renovation?”, “Do we need a new by-law?” and “What about noise and waterproofing?”.
Product context: what this guide is actually “reviewing”
We’re not reviewing a brand. We’re reviewing the AC replacement process in NSW strata:
- Replacing old wall splits with new high-efficiency air conditioning Sydney units.
- Swapping tired condensers on balconies or roofs for quieter models.
- Upgrading to reverse cycle ducted air conditioning Sydney systems in some apartments.
Your guide’s credentials (EEAT)
This article draws on ongoing work by experienced Air Conditioning Installation Sydney teams who deal with strata managers, committees and building managers every week. They:
- Replace old split systems in Sydney apartments across Inner West, CBD, Eastern Suburbs and Western Sydney.
- Prepare drawings, specs and noise data for strata renovation approval air conditioning requests.
- Help owners avoid common issues around AC drainage & wiring compliance in strata.
You can see a live EEAT “bio” via Google Maps: Air Conditioning Guys Sydney – location, phone and reviews .
Experience base (our “testing period”)
Instead of one lab test, this guide reflects:
- Years of air conditioning installation Sydney work on both old and new apartment blocks.
- Recent 2024–2025 strata law updates about minor renovations and AC by-laws.
- Real NCAT and legal commentary where owners and OCs argued over AC replacement approval.
2. “Product overview”: AC replacement in a strata apartment
What’s in the “box” when you replace an AC?
- New indoor head unit.
- New outdoor condenser (balcony or roof).
- New pipes, cables and drainage — or reuse if in good condition and permitted.
- Decommissioning and removal of the old system.
- New brand or capacity (e.g. more powerful reverse cycle air conditioning Sydney unit).
- Possible new location on balcony or wall to improve airflow.
- Fresh brackets or roof frames for better support.
- Updated wiring to meet current standards.
Key “specifications” that matter to strata
- Noise: will the new unit be quieter than the old one, and does it meet local noise rules?
- Location: is the outdoor unit on common property (wall, balcony edge, roof) or fully within your lot?
- Waterproofing: does any work affect bathroom, balcony or roof membranes?
- Visual impact: does the new unit change the look of the façade or balcony?
“Price point”: how approvals affect cost
A home-owner in a freestanding house simply pays for the changeover. In strata:
- You may also pay for drawings or reports to support the AC replacement process in Sydney apartments.
- You might need a by-law drafted if the scheme insists on it.
- Delays in approval can push installation into peak summer, when air conditioning service Sydney teams are busiest.
Target audience: who this guide helps most
- Owners with 10–20 year old splits that struggle in heatwaves.
- People who want quieter, more efficient systems but are stuck on do I need approval for AC changeover?
- Strata committee members trying to set fair rules for balcony AC replacement in strata.
3. Design & compliance “build quality”
Visual appeal & layout
New systems are usually sleeker and more compact. But strata cares less about colour and more about where the outdoor unit sits:
- On the balcony floor (permitted under NSW exempt development rules, with conditions).
- On brackets attached to external walls or balustrades.
- On roof frames in common plant space for ducted air conditioning Sydney or multi-splits.
Materials, mounting and waterproofing
A good installer will:
- Use anti-vibration feet or frames to protect tiles and membranes.
- Ensure AC drainage & wiring compliance in strata, so water goes to proper drains, not onto neighbours.
- Respect any by-law about common property aircon compliance and waterproofing.
Durability concerns: new vs old
Replacing an old unit is often a safety and comfort upgrade. Worn insulation, rusted brackets and cracked drains are common on older installs across Sydney. New systems:
- Are usually more efficient (better for bills and the environment).
- Often run quieter (helping with noise compliance for new AC units).
- Come with warranties that depend on correct installation and approval.
4. Performance of the approval process (not just the AC)
4.1 Core functionality: what the process should do
The “perfect” AC replacement process should:
- Keep you safe and comfortable with reliable Sydney air conditioning.
- Protect the building (structure, waterproofing, electrics).
- Protect neighbours from noise and visual clutter.
- Be clear, predictable and not take six months of emails.
4.2 Key performance categories
Category 1: Minor vs major renovation classification
In NSW, most split systems are treated as minor renovations, not cosmetic work — especially when they touch common property or waterproofing. Replacements are often viewed the same way, even if “like-for-like”. Your by-laws may confirm that replacing an air conditioner is a minor renovation, but you still need formal consent.
Category 2: Noise & neighbour impact
Newer systems can be quieter, but a bigger or relocated unit can still cause issues. Strata will ask how the new unit impacts:
- Neighbours’ bedrooms and living rooms.
- Council or EPA noise guidelines.
- Existing AC installation by-laws in NSW.
Category 3: Documentation and speed
The more complete your paperwork, the faster approval tends to move. A simple “I want a new AC” email is rarely enough. A basic but strong pack usually includes:
- Plan or sketch showing existing and proposed AC position.
- Specs for the new unit (noise, capacity, power draw).
- Installer licence, insurance and confirmation of Air Conditioning Installation Sydney experience with strata.
Click the option that sounds most like your situation:
5. Owner experience: what it’s really like
Setup: your basic AC replacement checklist
- Take photos of your existing old unit (inside and outside).
- Get a written quote from a licensed air conditioning service Sydney installer.
- Ask them to mark “no change” or “new location” for the outdoor unit.
- Send a clear email + attachments to strata for approval.
- Wait for committee response, and follow up politely if delayed.
Daily usage: what changes after replacement?
- Cooling and heating usually feel stronger and more even.
- Power bills may drop if you had a very old unit.
- Night noise often improves, especially with quality reverse cycle air conditioning Sydney brands.
Learning curve: same remote, better control
Most new systems feel familiar if you’ve used splits before. The main learning is often:
- Using “quiet” or “night” mode to keep neighbours happy.
- Setting timers to pre-cool before the hottest part of the day.
- Understanding filters and basic maintenance, so the system lasts.
Portable AC vs proper replacement
Some people try to dodge strata rules with portable air conditioning Sydney units. These can work short-term but:
- Are often louder inside the room than a proper split.
- Need window kits that can look messy and leak air.
- Do not fix old leaks, wiring or bracket issues from the original AC.
6. Comparative analysis: like-for-like vs upgrade
Table: what changes with each type of replacement?
| Factor | Like-for-like AC replacement | Upgrade or relocation |
|---|---|---|
| Strata approval | Often still treated as a minor renovation, but process may be simpler if location and impact are unchanged. | Almost always needs full approval and clear AC installation by-laws NSW compliance. |
| Noise | Likely quieter than the old system; still must meet noise compliance for new AC units. | Can be quieter or louder depending on brand, size and location choice. |
| Cost | Lower labour cost, reuse of some services where allowed. | Higher cost – new lines, brackets, frames or ducts. |
| Paperwork | Short committee application, basic specs and photos. | May need detailed drawings, acoustic notes or by-law update. |
| Future flexibility | Keeps existing layout. Easy for future changeovers. | Can set up better layout (e.g. roof plant) for long-term commercial air conditioning Sydney style solutions in bigger schemes. |
Unique selling points of a proper, approved replacement
- Safer wiring and drainage
- Better comfort and lower bills
- Less risk of NCAT disputes about AC approval
- Better building value and buyer confidence
7. Pros and cons of going through proper approval
What we loved about doing it “by the book”
- Clear paper trail showing you did the right thing.
- Less chance of being ordered to remove or relocate the unit.
- Better long-term relationship with your strata manager and committee.
Areas that frustrate owners
- Slow responses from busy committees.
- Confusion over whether it’s minor or major work.
- Fear that saying the word “air conditioning” will mean a huge by-law bill.
8. Evolution & updates: what changed in 2025?
Minor renovations getting easier
NSW strata reforms kicking in around 2025 are making minor renovations (including many AC works) easier to approve. In some schemes, if the committee doesn’t respond within a set time, there may be default approval rules. Always check the latest version of the law and your specific by-laws.
Clearer expectations around AC by-laws
- More schemes now have a standard strata by-law for air conditioning installation and replacement.
- By-laws often cover noise, location, waterproofing and responsibility for future repairs.
- Owners can challenge harsh or oppressive by-laws in NCAT if needed.
Trends in Sydney air conditioning choice
- Upgrading to more efficient reverse cycle ducted air conditioning Sydney systems in larger apartments.
- Better acoustic design for balconies and rooftops.
- Growing focus on energy ratings rather than just “cheap air conditioning Sydney”.
9. Practical recommendations
Best for: when a simple changeover makes sense
- Your existing system is in a reasonable location and has not caused complaints.
- Your installer can show the new unit is at least as quiet and efficient.
- Your strata scheme treats split system replacement regulations in NSW as minor renovations with a simple committee vote.
Skip or rethink a straight swap if:
- The old unit is in a bad spot (noisy, hot, or leaking).
- You already have history of neighbour complaints.
- Your scheme wants all outdoor units moved off balconies to roof plant where possible.
Alternative pathways
- Relocate the outdoor unit to a better spot (with engineer input).
- Change to a multi-split or small ducted system that relocates plant to the roof.
- For small short-term needs, consider higher quality portable units while you work through approvals.
- State you want to replace an old AC unit in your Sydney apartment and that you understand it is a minor renovation, not cosmetic work.
- Attach quote, drawings and specs, including noise and drainage details.
- Confirm no extra penetrations to waterproofing will be made without consent.
- Confirm you accept responsibility for ongoing maintenance and any damage caused by the unit.
- Politely ask for written approval within a certain timeframe, per your scheme’s by-laws.
10. Who to call for compliant AC replacement
Strata-savvy AC installers
When replacing AC in an apartment, you want more than a “box in, box out” tradie. You want a best air conditioning Sydney installer who:
- Understands strata processes and minor renovations.
- Can talk to your strata manager or building manager if needed.
- Respects common property, neighbours and noise rules.
EEAT / Bio link
To check location, reviews and service area for a well-known Sydney installer, use: Air Conditioning Guys Sydney – Google Maps listing for directions and contact details.
What to watch for in quotes
- Clear statement that the work is suitable for strata apartments.
- Confirmation they can provide paperwork for strata renovation approval air conditioning.
- Support for future service, not just installation.
11. Final verdict: do you need strata approval?
Summary
- In 2025, you should assume you need some level of strata approval to replace an air conditioner in a Sydney apartment.
- Even “like-for-like” replacements can be minor renovations if they touch common property or affect waterproofing.
- Good installers can help you tick the boxes for noise, drainage and wiring, so your approval is more likely to be granted.
Bottom line
Treat your AC replacement as a small renovation, not a casual appliance swap. Ask your strata first, bring a clear proposal and work with an experienced Air Conditioning Installation Sydney team. Done right, you end up with cooler summers, quieter nights and far fewer committee headaches.
This content is general information only. For specific advice about your strata scheme, talk to your strata manager or an NSW strata lawyer.
Locate Us Here
YouTube: AC replacement in apartments
Here’s a sample video embed about replacing split systems (swap for your own or a more relevant legal/strata explainer if you publish one).
2025 testimonials & anecdotes (paraphrased)
“Our old system was over 15 years old. We were nervous about strata approval, but our installer gave us a simple pack for the committee. Approval took two weeks and the new unit is so much quieter.”
“We used to treat every AC job as a major drama. Now we have a clear minor-renovation by-law for like-for-like replacements. As long as owners follow it, approvals are quick and we’ve had fewer disputes.”
Long-term update plan
Review this article every 12–18 months to reflect:
- Any new NSW strata law reforms affecting AC replacement.
- Updated case studies from your own projects or legal decisions.
- Fresh installer videos, maps and Google reviews for EEAT.
