How Much Does a Balcony Renovation Cost in Sydney? (2026 Price Guide)

What Does a Balcony Renovation Cost in Sydney?

Balcony renovation cost is one of the most common questions Sydney homeowners and apartment owners ask us, and the answer depends on several factors that aren't always obvious upfront.

A complete balcony renovation in Sydney typically costs between $5,000 and $25,000+ as of 2026. That range is wide because balcony projects vary enormously, from a straightforward retile on a small apartment balcony through to a full structural remediation on a large terrace with waterproofing failure.

With 15+ years of experience renovating balconies across Sydney, from high-rise apartments in the CBD to freestanding homes across the suburbs, we've put together this guide to help you understand exactly where your money goes and how to budget accurately for your project.

Quick Reference: Balcony Renovation Cost Summary (2026)

Prices are accurate as of 2026 for the greater Sydney market. Individual quotes will vary based on balcony size, building type, structural condition, and access requirements.

Balcony Renovation Pricing Tiers in Sydney

Basic Renovation: $5,000-$10,000

Suitable for small apartment balconies (4-8m²) in reasonable structural condition:

• Tile removal and disposal
• Surface preparation and minor repairs
• Basic waterproofing membrane application
• New non-slip porcelain tiles installed
• Full site cleanup

This tier works when the concrete substrate is sound, drainage falls are adequate, and the main issue is aged or damaged tiles and waterproofing.

Standard Renovation: $10,000-$15,000

The most common tier for mid-sized balconies (8-15m²) or smaller balconies with additional issues:

• Complete strip-out of tiles and existing waterproofing
• Substrate assessment and repair
• Drainage fall correction (if water pooling is an issue)
• Full waterproofing system with certification
• Premium non-slip tiling
• Threshold and edge detailing

Premium Renovation: $15,000-$20,000

For large balconies or projects requiring structural intervention:

• Professional structural assessment
• Concrete cancer treatment and spalling repair
• Multi-layer waterproofing system
• Custom drainage solutions
• Large format or natural stone tiles
• Railing interface waterproofing

Custom Renovation: $20,000+

Full balcony transformation projects:

• Complete structural remediation
• Engineering reports and certification
• Designer tile and finish selection
• Integrated planter boxes or feature tiling
• Structural steel or concrete repairs
• End-to-end project management

Breaking Down the Costs: Where Your Money Goes

Understanding how costs are distributed helps you see where savings are possible and where cutting corners is risky.

Demolition and Strip-Out (10-15%)

Removing existing tiles and failed waterproofing is the necessary first step:

• Tile removal: $30-$50 per m²
• Waterproofing membrane removal: $20-$40 per m²
• Waste disposal: $300-$500 (skip bin)
• Asbestos testing (older buildings): $250-$450

For a 10m² balcony, expect demolition costs of $800-$1,400.

Structural Assessment and Repair (0-30%)

This is the cost component that varies most dramatically between projects:

• Visual inspection: Often included in the quote
• Engineering report (if structural damage suspected): $500-$1,500
• Concrete spalling repair: $150-$300 per m²
• Concrete cancer treatment: $200-$400 per m²
• Crack injection: $100-$250 per linear metre

Some balconies need no structural work at all, while others may require $5,000+ in concrete repairs before waterproofing and tiling can begin. This is the main reason balcony renovation quotes vary so widely.

Waterproofing (15-25%)

Waterproofing is the most important component of any balcony renovation. A failed membrane is the number one reason Sydney balconies need renovating in the first place.

• External-grade liquid membrane: $60-$70 per m²
• Torch-on sheet membrane (more durable): $70-$90 per m²
• Upstands and edge detailing: $30-$50 per linear metre
• Drainage integration: Included in waterproofing scope
• Certification and flood testing: Typically included

Tiling (25-35%)

Balcony tiling requires specific materials rated for outdoor use. For a full breakdown of tiling costs across all areas, see our tiling cost guide.

• Non-slip porcelain tiles (supply and install): $70-$110 per m²
• Large format porcelain (supply and install): $90-$135 per m²
• Natural stone tiles (supply and install): $120-$200+ per m²
• Threshold tiling: $40-$80 per linear metre
• Edge trim and finishing: $25-$50 per linear metre

Not all tiles are suitable for balconies. We recommend porcelain tiles with a water absorption rate below 0.5% and a slip resistance rating of R11 or higher. Standard ceramic tiles absorb too much moisture and can crack in Sydney's temperature fluctuations.

Drainage (5-10%)

Proper drainage prevents water pooling, which is one of the leading causes of waterproofing failure:

• Drainage fall correction (screed): $500-$1,500
• New floor waste installation: $200-$400
• Channel drain installation: $400-$800
• Downpipe connection or modification: $300-$600

Finishing (5-10%)

• Silicone sealing at junctions: $200-$400
• Expansion joint installation: $30-$60 per linear metre
• Railing reattachment or modification: $300-$1,000
• Final clean: $150-$250

What Drives the Price of a Balcony Renovation?

1. Balcony Size

Size directly affects material and labour quantities:

• Small apartment balcony (3-6m²): $5,000-$12,000
• Medium balcony (6-12m²): $8,000-$18,000
• Large terrace or wraparound (12-25m²): $15,000-$25,000+

2. Structural Condition

This is the single biggest wildcard in balcony renovation pricing. A balcony with sound concrete and no water damage may need only waterproofing and retiling. A balcony with concrete cancer, spalling, or reinforcement corrosion may require thousands in structural repair before any surface work can begin.

Signs of structural issues include:

• Rust stains on the concrete underside
• Visible cracking or spalling (chunks falling off)
• Exposed reinforcement steel
• Sagging or uneven surfaces
• Efflorescence (white salt deposits) on walls below

3. Building Height and Access

Access affects how materials are delivered and waste is removed:

• Ground floor or low-rise: Standard access, no premium
• Mid-rise (3-6 storeys): Lift access needed, minor premium of 5-10%
• High-rise (7+ storeys): Crane or hoist may be needed for materials, premium of 15-25%
• Heritage buildings: May require scaffolding or protection of common areas

4. Existing Waterproofing Condition

If the current waterproofing has completely failed (evidenced by leaks to the room below), the substrate underneath is likely damaged too. This means:

• More extensive demolition to remove compromised material
• Possible structural repair to water-damaged concrete
• Thorough drying time before new waterproofing can be applied
• Potential remediation of the ceiling below (not always included in the balcony quote)

5. Tile Selection

Your choice of tile affects both material cost and installation complexity:

• Standard porcelain at $40-$60/m² for materials
• Premium large format at $80-$120/m² for materials
• Natural stone at $100-$180/m² for materials

Installation labour for balconies typically runs $50-$80 per m², regardless of tile type. Larger format tiles require more precision and heavier handling but cover area faster.

Waterproofing Costs: The Biggest Variable

Waterproofing is worth examining in detail because it's both the most important component and the one most commonly underquoted by less experienced contractors.

What Goes Into Proper Balcony Waterproofing

A compliant balcony waterproofing system includes:

1. Substrate preparation: Grinding, cleaning, and priming the concrete surface
2. Crack treatment: Filling and reinforcing any cracks with flexible sealant
3. Primer application: Bonding agent for the membrane
4. Membrane application: Minimum two coats with reinforcing fabric at joints, corners, and penetrations
5. Upstands: Membrane turned up walls and door thresholds (minimum 150mm)
6. Curing: Adequate drying time between coats (typically 24 hours)
7. Flood testing: 24-48 hour water test to verify integrity
8. Certification: Written certificate of compliance

Common Waterproofing Mistakes That Increase Costs

When we're called in to fix failed balcony renovations done by others, these are the issues we see most often:

• Using bathroom-grade membrane on an external balcony. It fails within 2-3 years
• Skipping upstands at the door threshold. Water tracks under the door frame into the building
• Insufficient membrane thickness. Two proper coats are the minimum
• Not addressing drainage first. Pooling water puts constant pressure on the membrane
• Tiling too soon. The membrane needs full curing time before tiles go on top

Strata Considerations and Their Impact on Costs

For apartment owners, strata adds complexity and potential costs to balcony renovations.

Strata Approval Process

Most strata schemes in NSW classify balcony waterproofing as common property, meaning you'll need written approval from the owners corporation before work begins. The process typically involves:

1. Written application to your strata committee or manager
2. Scope of works document (your contractor should provide this)
3. Committee review at the next meeting (or special resolution for major work)
4. Approval with conditions (working hours, waste management, insurance)

This process takes 4-8 weeks on average, so factor it into your project timeline.

Additional Strata-Related Costs

• Engineering report (often required by strata): $500-$1,500
• Strata levy contribution (if common property is involved): Varies
• Working hours restrictions: May extend the project timeline, increasing labour costs
• Protection of common areas: Lift padding, corridor protection, $200-$500
• After-hours access fees: If lift booking is needed for materials

Who Pays for Balcony Waterproofing in Strata?

This is one of the most contested questions in strata property. Generally:

• Waterproofing membrane (structural component): Often the responsibility of the owners corporation
• Tiles and surface finishes: Usually the lot owner's responsibility
• Structural repairs: Almost always the owners corporation's responsibility

Check your strata plan and by-laws, as this varies between schemes. Getting clarity on cost responsibility before work begins prevents disputes later.

How to Budget for Your Balcony Renovation

Step 1: Get a Professional Assessment

Before committing to any budget figure, have a qualified contractor inspect your balcony. A visual assessment (usually free with a quote) can identify:

• Whether structural repairs are needed
• The condition of existing waterproofing
• Drainage adequacy
• Access challenges

This helps you understand whether you're looking at a $5,000 retile or a $20,000 structural renovation.

Step 2: Get Three Itemised Quotes

Each quote should separately list:

• Demolition and waste removal
• Structural repairs (if applicable)
• Waterproofing (materials, labour, and certification)
• Tiling (materials and labour separately)
• Drainage work
• Project timeline

Comparing itemised quotes lets you see exactly where prices differ. A cheaper quote may be excluding waterproofing certification or using a lower-grade membrane.

Step 3: Allow 15-20% Contingency

Balcony renovations have a higher contingency requirement than indoor projects. Once tiles are removed, you may discover:

• Concrete damage not visible from the surface
• Failed or non-existent original waterproofing
• Inadequate drainage falls requiring correction
• Rebar corrosion requiring structural repair

A 15-20% buffer protects you from these common discoveries.

Step 4: Factor in Strata Timelines

If you're in a strata scheme, add 4-8 weeks for approval before your contractor can start. Plan your renovation timeline accordingly, especially if you're trying to coordinate with good weather (spring and autumn are ideal in Sydney for balcony work).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a balcony renovation take?

A typical balcony renovation takes 7-14 working days depending on the scope. This includes 1-2 days for demolition, 1-3 days for structural repairs (if needed), 1-2 days for waterproofing application and curing, 2-3 days for tiling, and 1 day for grouting and finishing. Weather can affect the timeline since balconies are exposed. Waterproofing and tiling adhesive both need dry conditions, so your contractor may need to work around Sydney's rain patterns.

Can I renovate my balcony without removing existing tiles?

While overlay systems exist, we generally recommend full tile removal for balcony renovations. Overlaying hides the condition of the waterproofing and substrate, doesn't fix drainage problems, and adds height that can cause issues at door thresholds. If the existing tiles are firmly bonded and the waterproofing is confirmed intact, an overlay may be possible in some cases. Read our tile over or tear out guide for a full comparison.

Is balcony renovation worth the investment?

Yes, particularly if your balcony has water ingress issues. A leaking balcony causes progressive damage to the structure below, including water staining, mould growth, concrete deterioration, and potential structural compromise. Fixing the problem early costs far less than remediation after years of water damage. From a property value perspective, a well-finished balcony with compliant waterproofing is a strong selling point for Sydney properties.

What tiles are best for a Sydney balcony?

Porcelain tiles with a water absorption rate below 0.5% and a slip resistance rating of R11 or higher are the standard recommendation for Sydney balconies. They handle UV exposure, rain, and temperature fluctuations without cracking or fading. Large format porcelain (600x600mm or larger) creates a clean, modern look and has fewer grout lines to maintain. Avoid standard ceramic tiles and unsealed natural stone on exposed balconies.

Do I need waterproofing if my balcony isn't leaking?

If your balcony is being retiled, the existing waterproofing must be replaced. Removing tiles damages the membrane beneath, and there's no reliable way to tile over a partially compromised membrane. Even if your balcony appears dry, the original waterproofing may be at end-of-life and close to failing. Replacing it during a retile is far cheaper than dealing with a failure after new tiles are installed.

Planning Your Balcony Renovation

A balcony renovation protects your property from water damage while transforming an underused outdoor space into something you'll actually enjoy. The key to a successful project is understanding the true scope of work, budgeting for waterproofing as the priority, and working with contractors experienced in external tiling and waterproofing.

At Ace Tiling Sydney, we specialise in balcony renovations across Sydney, from apartment balconies requiring strata coordination through to large residential terraces. With contractor licence 957882283 and $20M public liability insurance, we provide detailed, itemised quotes and manage the entire process from assessment to handover.

For a free, no-obligation assessment of your balcony renovation, call us on 0434 383 940 or request a quote online.