Heritage Renovations in Melbourne: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Many homes in Melbourne’s north, east and inner suburbs fall under heritage overlays.
Renovating these homes requires careful planning.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Heritage Overlay?
A heritage overlay protects the character of historically significant homes and streetscapes.
It often affects:
Facades
Roofing materials
Windows
Fencing
Extensions visible from the street
Suburbs commonly affected:
Fitzroy
Carlton
Hawthorn
Kew
Brunswick
South Yarra
Approval Process
Most heritage renovations require:
Town planning approval
Architectural drawings
Council review
Construction compliance
Working with a builder experienced in heritage projects reduces delays.
What Can You Modernise?
In most cases:
Interiors can be fully modernised
Rear extensions are permitted (subject to design)
Sustainable upgrades are encouraged
The key is respecting the street presentation.
Budget Considerations
Heritage renovations typically cost more due to:
Specialist trades
Restoration detailing
Custom joinery
Council documentation requirements
However, well-executed heritage renovations significantly increase property value in inner Melbourne suburbs.
The Advantage of Experience
Not all builders are suited to heritage work.
At Inside and Out Builders, we understand the structural and compliance requirements that come with renovating period homes.
If you’re considering a heritage renovation in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, speak with us before lodging permits.