Are there any specific local council approvals or permits needed before selling a property on the Gold Coast (e.g., for renovations or extensions)?
Yes, you will need council approvals or permits before selling a property on the Gold Coast if you have unapproved home extensions, second-storey additions, decks, patios, carports, garage conversions, swimming pools, pool fencing, retaining walls over 1m high, sheds over 10m², granny flats, secondary dwellings, demolitions, relocations of buildings, boundary realignments, commercial use or short-term accommodation (Airbnb-style).
Thinking of selling your property on the Gold Coast? Before listing your property on the market, it’s essential to determine whether any local council approvals or permits are required, especially if your property has undergone renovations, extensions, or other improvements.
Whether you’re a homeowner in Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads or beyond, overlooking compliance can lead to legal headaches, reduced buyer interest, or even settlement delays.
When Are Council Approvals Needed Before Selling?
Generally, you don’t need new approvals just to sell a property. However, if you’ve made structural changes, like building an extension, enclosing a patio, or converting a garage into a room, you’ll need to ensure those changes were properly approved and certified before listing your property.
✅ You’ll need council approval for past or recent:
- Home extensions or second-storey additions
- Decks, patios, or carports
- Garage conversions
- Swimming pools and pool fencing
- Retaining walls over 1m high
- Sheds over 10m²
- Granny flats or secondary dwellings
- Demolitions or relocations of buildings
- Boundary realignments
- Commercial use or short-term accommodation (Airbnb-style)
If these works were completed without council approval or final certification, you could be liable, even years later.
Why It Matters to Get Your Property Compliant Before Selling
If your home includes unapproved or uncertified structures, you could face:
- A delayed or failed property settlement
- Lower offers from cautious buyers
- Pressure to rectify works, which can be costly
- Legal risks if the buyer discovers the issue post-sale
Buyers and their solicitors often request building approvals and final inspection certificates during the conveyancing process. A missing or incomplete file could derail the entire process.
How to Check If Your Gold Coast Property Has the Required Approvals
- Request a Property Search through the Gold Coast City Council:
A full building records search (around $120–$200) will reveal approved works, permits, inspections, and final certifications. - Contact a Private Building Certifier:
They can review your property and assist in obtaining retrospective building approval, if needed. - Speak to Your Solicitor or Conveyancer:
They’ll guide you through the legal documentation buyers will request.
What About Retrospective Approvals on the Gold Coast?
If you or a previous owner completed renovations without approval, you may still be able to apply for retrospective approval.
This involves:
- Engaging a building certifier
- Submitting structural plans
- Possibly commissioning engineer’s reports
- Paying application and certification fees
- Passing a final inspection
While it can be time-consuming, it’s often better than risking a sale falling through.
Common Red Flags Buyers Look For
Buyers and their agents on the Gold Coast are becoming increasingly savvy. Expect them to ask:
- Is that deck approved by council?
- Was the garage legally converted into a bedroom?
- Are all compliance certificates available?
- Can I get insurance for these structures?
Selling Without Approval: What Are the Risks?
Selling a property with unapproved works isn’t illegal, but it can create serious complications:
- The buyer may withdraw or demand a price reduction.
- Insurance may be void if an incident occurs.
- You may be liable for post-sale claims if issues arise.
Being transparent and proactive gives buyers confidence and protects your interests.
Do Pool Fences and Smoke Alarms Need Certification Too?
Yes, these are mandatory under Queensland legislation.
- Pool Safety Certificate: Required if selling a property with a pool. You’ll need to engage a licensed pool inspector.
- Smoke Alarms: As of 2022, all homes sold in QLD must have photoelectric smoke alarms installed in each bedroom, hallway, and on every storey.
Failing to meet these basic compliance rules could result in fines or a stalled settlement.
What Does the Gold Coast City Council Say?
The Gold Coast City Council outlines specific requirements for:
- Building approvals
- Plumbing and drainage permits
- Property overlays (bushfire, flood, coastal hazard)
- Zoning restrictions
- Heritage or character protections
It’s smart to visit the Gold Coast City Council planning page or speak with a professional before listing your property.
Tips for Ensuring Your Property Is Approval-Ready Before Selling
- ✅ Get a building records search
- ✅ Review previous renovation documents
- ✅ Check for final inspection certificates
- ✅ Make sure your pool and smoke alarms comply
- ✅ Engage your solicitor early in the process
- ✅ Fix issues before you go to market
Get It Right, Sell With Confidence
Selling your Gold Coast property isn’t just about great photos and open homes; it’s also about legal peace of mind.
As a local agent who specialises in guiding homeowners through every step of the sales journey, I’m here to help ensure your property is not only appealing but also compliant.
If you’re unsure whether your home has the right approvals, I can connect you with reliable certifiers, conveyancers, and local experts.
✅ FAQs
1. Can I sell a property on the Gold Coast with unapproved renovations?
Yes, but it’s risky. Buyers may pull out or demand a lower price. It’s best to seek retrospective approval first.
2. How do I determine if my shed, deck, or extension has been approved?
Order a building records search from Gold Coast City Council or hire a private certifier.
3. How much does retrospective approval cost?
Costs vary but can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the structure.
4. Can a buyer cancel a contract if they discover unapproved structures?
Yes, especially if they’re not disclosed or if the contract contains clauses relating to approvals.
5. What if my property is part of a body corporate?
You’ll also need to check for body corporate approval for external works, such as air conditioning units or fences.
More Smart Seller Questions Answered
What Happens When You Try to Sell a Property Above Market Value on the Gold Coast?
Overpricing your property might seem like a smart strategy, but on the Gold Coast, it often backfires. Today’s buyers are informed and comparison-savvy.
If your home is priced too high, it can sit on the market, lose momentum, and become overlooked in favour of more realistically priced options.
Overpricing your property can lead to fewer enquiries, longer days on market, and ultimately a lower sale price. The key is strategic pricing that attracts attention, drives interest, and creates competition, without leaving money on the table. Want to sell for the best possible price without the costly risks of overpricing? Learn how to price your Gold Coast property right—and get it SOLD with confidence.
THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY TO A SUCCESSFUL GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE STARTS
My simplified guide below will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast;
I proudly sell homes across the entire coast.
1. PREPARING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY FOR SALE + SOME OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tidying gardens and decluttering everything inside and out.
- All homes for sale, are legally required to have hardwired photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms.
Non-removable 10-year battery smoke alarms can be installed as an alternative.
- By law, you are required to complete a pre-contractual seller’s disclosure statement: generally related to limitations, restraints, or defects in the property title, such as easements, covenants, leasing, zoning, etc.
- A pool safety certificate is also required if you have a swimming pool or if the property has a shared swimming pool (Body Corporate).
2. COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
After showing me around your property, I will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. This is a detailed, legally required analysis of your home’s market value.
The CMA is based on recently sold and for-sale properties similar to yours in the immediate area. I will need to view your home to prepare this report.
3. SETTING A MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST HOME
The third step in selling your home is to create a marketing budget.
By law, this must be based on actual costs.
There are various marketing options to consider, such as:
– Internal, External and Drone Photography.
– Property and House Plans show potential buyers the exact layout of your home and property.
– Internet Advertising on platforms such as RealEstate.com.au, Domain.com.au, Facebook.com, Instagram.com, etc.
– For Sale Sign on the street is still essential to attracting potential buyers. Even though many buyers start their search online, they often drive around neighbourhoods to see what’s available.
A simple fact: Not having a For Sale sign can significantly reduce the number of people who see your property and may be interested in buying it.
4. PREPARING AND APPROVING THE FORM 6 AGREEMENT WHEN SELLING A GOLD COAST PROPERTY
A Form 6 Agreement is a document provided by the Queensland State Government. It outlines all relevant details of the property sale, including the marketing budget.
Our administration team will prepare this form for you and send it for your review and approval.
5. PAYING THE MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
Once you have approved the Form 6 Agreement, the next step is to pay for the marketing budget that you have chosen.
6. STARTING THE ADVERTISING PROCESS
Once your payment is received, the advertising campaign will commence.
Advertising strategies will align with the choices you made within your marketing budget.
7. MONITORING MARKET RESPONSE
If your property hasn’t received offers within 30 days, don’t assume there’s no interest.
It often means the price isn’t aligned with what buyers are willing to pay at this time.
This is your signal to review and adjust your pricing strategy so your home remains competitive and receives the attention it deserves.
8. ARRANGING BUYER VIEWINGS
When buyers express interest in your property, viewings will be arranged to allow them to see your home in person; you need to be away from the property during these viewings.
This helps potential buyers feel relaxed and visualise themselves as the new owners, thereby forming a deeper connection with your property.
9. CONSIDERING A BUYER’S OFFER
When you receive an offer on your home, it means a buyer is serious and ready to move forward at a certain price.
This is a key moment in your selling journey. Take the time to go over the offer carefully.
Look beyond the price; check the terms, conditions, and settlement timeframes. Make sure it works for you before accepting, countering, or declining.
10. ACCEPT, COUNTER, REJECT
When an offer is presented, you will need to respond by accepting, countering, or rejecting it.
Accepting locks in the agreed-upon price and terms.
Countering proposes changes and initiates further negotiations. If countering, present revised terms clearly; open, respectful communication is key for a smooth sale.
Rejecting means the offer is unacceptable; in this case, respond promptly and professionally, explaining your reasoning for the decision.
11. YOUR LEGALITIES
When you finally accept an offer, you will engage your conveyancer or solicitor to facilitate the legal requirements to complete the sale.
If you are part of a Body Corporate, you will need to provide a Disclosure Statement from them.
Your solicitor will use PEXA to settle your property. Part of the process requires Verification of Identity. Also, anyone selling a property must complete an ATO Clearance Certificate.
12. BUYER’S DEPOSIT
The buyer’s deposit is a crucial step in the property purchase process; it will be held in the agency’s Trust account.
This is a tangible expression of the buyer’s commitment to purchase your property.
13. BUILDING AND PEST INSPECTIONS
Typically, a buyer will arrange for a building and pest inspection report to be completed, usually within 14 days of the contract date.
Additionally, they may have the contract subject to finance, which is generally applicable for 21 days from the contract date.
14. COMPLETING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE
Based on the outcome of the building and pest inspection report, as well as any finance being sought, the buyer will proceed with their offer or withdraw it.
At this point, the sale either falls through or becomes unconditional.
15. LOOKING FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY
If the sale becomes unconditional, it is time to start looking for a new property. Remember, there is no need to rush.
It is essential that you take your time, as this needs to be a very considered purchase.
Your new home is of substantial value and can be costly if you change your mind. Something you may want to investigate is Short-Term Bridging Loans.
16. ALTERNATIVES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER
An alternative to seriously consider when deciding where to live between selling and buying is renting while you look for a new property.
Renting for a short period gives you breathing room; it allows you time to clear your head, make a confident, considered decision, and ultimately buy where you truly want to live, with no pressure or panic.
17. TIME FOR YOU TO MOVE
Leaving your home opens doors to a new chapter full of new beginnings. Embrace the excitement of a fresh start and cherish the memories you’ve made.
Every box you pack brings you one step closer to a new adventure full of possibilities that lie ahead.
18. YOUR SALE CONCLUDES
The culmination of the property sale is settlement; it marks the transfer of the property to the new buyer.
As the final chapter concludes, this marks a sense of achievement: your property has now SOLD.
19. YOUR FUTURE OPTIONS
If you have chosen to rent, you will continue to look for and eventually purchase a property, apartment, or perhaps even buy land and build; now there’s something to consider.
20. TIME TO UNWIND AND MAKE YOUR NEW HOME YOUR OWN
As you unpack and furnish your new home, embrace the gradual process of creating your haven.
Enjoy the transformation, one room at a time.
Relax in the tranquillity of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of your new neighbourhood.
Explore the nearby parks and cafes; enjoy the unique charm of your new community.
Remember, settling in is a journey in itself; it’s not a race. Embrace the process of creating a home that reflects your unique style and personality.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or just ready to move on, I’ll guide you through every step of selling your Gold Coast home with confidence and ease.
Navigating the intricacies of selling your property can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; as you would naturally expect, your steps may vary.
Author – Craig Douglas
Are you ready for a conversation about selling your Gold Coast home?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD
Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
You can find me working at a Boutique Real Estate Agency
These are just some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Upper Coomera
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
