Waterproofing is one of the most critical stages in any bathroom renovation or kitchen renovation — especially in Sydney apartments where building compliance and neighbour protection are paramount. It's not just about preventing leaks; it's about complying with Australian Standards, strata by-laws, and ensuring your warranty covers you for years to come.
⚠️ Critical: In NSW, waterproofing work must be carried out by a licensed waterproofer. Using unlicensed contractors voids warranties and insurance coverage.
Why Waterproofing Matters in Apartment Renovations
In an apartment, a waterproofing failure doesn't just affect your property — it can cause costly damage to neighbours below and to common property. As Sydney's trusted apartment renovation specialists, we've seen the devastating effects of poor waterproofing:
- ✗Water leaks causing thousands in damage to downstairs ceilings and walls
- ✗Swelling and rotting of timber framing and cabinetry
- ✗Toxic mould growth from trapped moisture
- ✗Costly disputes with strata and rejected insurance claims
Fine Touch Group's licensed waterproofer applying membrane to bathroom floor
Australian Standards & NCC Requirements
Waterproofing in Australia must meet strict compliance standards. At Fine Touch Group, all our waterproofing work adheres to:
Key Compliance Standards:
- ✓NCC (National Construction Code) wet area provisions
- ✓AS 3740 – Waterproofing of Domestic Wet Areas (primary standard for bathrooms and kitchens)
- ✓AS 4654 – Waterproofing membranes for external above-ground use (for balconies and external areas)
Critical Compliance Points:
- • Waterproofing membranes must extend 1800mm up walls in shower areas
- • 150mm minimum upturn at all wall/floor junctions
- • Shower recesses must be fully waterproofed from floor to ceiling
- • Special detailing required at all penetrations and drainage points
- • Flood testing required before tiling commences
Fine Touch Group Guarantee: We only use licensed waterproofers who provide compliance certificates. Every project includes detailed photographic documentation of the waterproofing process for your records and strata requirements.
Licensed Contractors Only – It's the Law
In NSW, waterproofing work must be carried out by a licensed waterproofer. This isn't optional — it's a legal requirement that protects you and your neighbours.
⚠️ Warning: Risks of Using Unlicensed Contractors
- • No legal warranty coverage for defects (you lose 6-year statutory warranty)
- • Strata will reject your renovation approval
- • Insurance companies will refuse water damage claims
- • Personal liability for damage to common property and neighbouring units
- • Difficulty selling your apartment without proper certification
Professionally waterproofed bathroom ready for tiling
Strata Approval Requirements
Waterproofing in apartments is classified as a major renovation under NSW strata laws because it affects common property (the slab and walls). Our strata approval guide covers this in detail, but here's what you need:
Required Documentation:
- 1Special resolution at an owners corporation meeting (75% approval required)
- 2Registered by-law allowing the waterproofing works
- 3Method statements detailing waterproofing products, application heights, and curing times
- 4Contractor licenses and insurance certificates
✓ Fine Touch Group handles all strata documentation — we prepare and submit everything required for approval, saving you time and ensuring compliance.
Common Waterproofing Mistakes to Avoid
After 30+ years renovating Sydney apartments, we've seen these critical errors repeatedly:
❌ DIY Disasters
- • Using paint-on membranes too thinly
- • Skipping primer application
- • Not allowing proper curing time
- • Poor junction sealing at corners
✓ Professional Standards
- • Multiple coats with correct thickness
- • Proper surface preparation and priming
- • 24-48 hour curing between coats
- • Reinforced corners and penetrations
Testing & Quality Assurance
We never skip the critical flood test — filling the waterproofed area with water and leaving it for 24 hours to ensure zero leaks. This test is especially important in strata buildings to prove compliance before tiling begins.
Our Quality Process:
- 1. Pre-waterproofing inspection and photographic documentation
- 2. Multiple membrane coats with drying time between applications
- 3. 24-hour flood test before any tiling work
- 4. Final inspection with compliance certificate issued
- 5. Digital documentation package for your records
Flood testing in progress to ensure waterproofing integrity
Warranty & Long-Term Protection
Licensed waterproofing work in NSW comes with statutory warranties:
- • 6 years coverage for major defects
- • 2 years coverage for minor defects
- • Transferable warranty if you sell your apartment
⚠️ Important Maintenance Tips:
- • Never drill or screw into waterproofed areas after renovation
- • Maintain silicone seals around fixtures annually
- • Keep certificates and documentation for insurance and resale
- • Report any issues immediately to prevent major damage
The Fine Touch Group Waterproofing Guarantee
Every bathroom and kitchen renovation we complete in Sydney includes:
- ✓Licensed waterproofers only — fully insured and certified
- ✓Compliance certificates — meeting all Australian Standards
- ✓Premium waterproofing membranes — not the cheapest option, the right option
- ✓Strata-ready documentation — all paperwork prepared for approval
- ✓Photographic evidence — complete documentation of the process
- ✓6-year warranty — backed by our 30+ years in business
Ready to Renovate with Confidence?
Don't risk your apartment's value and your neighbours' properties with substandard waterproofing. Trust Sydney's apartment renovation specialists with 185+ five-star reviews.
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