What is a BCA Report and How Much Does it Cost?

If you're preparing a development application or looking for DA approval in NSW, chances are you’ve been told you need a BCA Report.

But what exactly is it, and why does it matter?

At Town Planning Sydney, a town planning and architectural drafting company based in NSW, we regularly assist homeowners, developers and business owners in navigating complex NSW planning rules.

One of the most common questions our planning consultants receive is about BCA Reports and how they affect council approval timelines and project costs.

Here’s everything you need to know

1. What is a BCA Report?

A BCA Report, also known as a Building Code of Australia Compliance Report, outlines whether your proposed building work complies with the National Construction Code.

This is essential for most development types in NSW, particularly where building modifications, additions or new structures are involved.

The BCA sets out performance requirements for fire safety, structure, access, energy efficiency, and other key health and safety elements.

Whether you're converting a warehouse into a childcare centre or adding a mezzanine to a retail shop, the BCA Report ensures your plans meet legal construction standards.

2. When is a BCA Report required?

A BCA Report is often requested by council as part of the DA process.

It may also be needed before issuing a Construction Certificate or a Complying Development Certificate

If you’re applying for DA approval in NSW, your planning consultant may advise that a BCA Report be included early to avoid unnecessary delays.

We’ve worked on residential dual occupancies, commercial fit-outs and multi-unit developments where the absence of a BCA Report stalled the development application.

If you’re not sure whether your project needs one, it’s best to seek tailored planning advice early in the process.

3. Who prepares a BCA Report?

Only a qualified building certifier or an accredited BCA consultant can prepare this report.

At Town Planning Sydney, we coordinate directly with BCA consultants as part of our in-house service offeringThis streamlines your submission process, especially when combined with architectural drafting and town planning in one place.

This also helps in reducing miscommunication and saving valuable time during your DA or CDC submission.

4. What does a BCA Report include?

The BCA Report provides a detailed assessment of your proposal against the applicable NCC (National Construction Code) volumes.

It highlights areas of non-compliance and recommends changes where required.

This includes fire safety ratings, exit paths, ceiling heights, ventilation, waterproofing and more.

If your plan includes shared driveways, internal stairs or rooftop access, the BCA Report will address how to meet minimum code standards.

Having this documentation strengthens your development application and makes it easier to gain council approval

5. How much does a BCA Report cost?

The cost of a BCA Report in NSW typically ranges between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the size and complexity of the development.

For example, a simple shop fit-out might cost around $1,200, while a large multi-storey residential project could be closer to $3,500.

Town Planning Sydney provides fixed-fee quotes so there are no surprises during your approval process.

We also advise whether your particular project justifies a full BCA assessment or a preliminary code review.

This is part of our role as a trusted planning consultant providing accurate, timely planning advice to clients across NSW.

6. Why is a BCA Report important for DA approval?

A well-prepared BCA Report shows the council that your project has been designed with code compliance in mind.

This increases your chance of DA approval and avoids lengthy “Requests for Further Information”.

In one recent project, we assisted a developer converting a warehouse in Western Sydney into a boutique gym.

The initial DA had stalled due to council concerns about fire exits and ventilation.

After incorporating a detailed BCA Report with our revised planning submission, the development application was approved within weeks.

This kind of outcome is only possible when the planning, design and compliance elements are properly aligned from the start