Question 1

How much does a deck cost in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

A timber deck in Sydney typically costs between $8,000 and $65,000 depending on size, material, and complexity. A small treated pine deck starts around $8,000–$18,000, while a large composite deck with multiple levels can reach $35,000–$65,000. Factors like site access, height above ground, and council requirements all affect the final price. We recommend getting a free site measure for an accurate written quote.

Question 2

Do I need council approval for a deck in NSW?

Accepted Answer

Under NSW planning rules, a deck can be built as exempt development — with no DA or CDC required — if it is no more than 25m² in area, no more than 1m above existing ground level, and located behind the building line. Any deck that exceeds these standards requires either a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or a full Development Application (DA) to your local council.

Question 3

How do I know if my builder is licensed in NSW?

Accepted Answer

In NSW, any building work valued over $5,000 must be carried out by a licensed carpenter/contractor. You can verify any licence at fairtrading.nsw.gov.au using the licence number. MJ Leckie Carpentry holds NSW Contractor Licence 353438C. Always ask for the licence number before signing any contract.

Question 4

What is the best decking material for coastal Sydney?

Accepted Answer

For coastal areas like the Northern Beaches, hardwood species such as Spotted Gum and Merbau perform well due to their natural durability and resistance to moisture. Composite decking is also an excellent choice for low maintenance. All fixings should be 316-grade marine stainless steel — standard galvanised fixings corrode rapidly in salt air environments within 1km of the coast.

Question 5

How long does it take to build a deck?

Accepted Answer

Most residential decks take between 1 and 3 weeks to complete depending on size and complexity. A simple ground-level deck may be finished in 5–7 working days, while a large elevated deck with stairs and balustrades could take 3–4 weeks. Council approval timelines are separate and can add 2–8 weeks depending on the application type.

Question 6

What is joist tape and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Joist tape is a self-adhesive waterproof membrane applied to the top of deck joists before the decking boards are laid. It prevents water from pooling where screws penetrate the timber — one of the most common causes of premature joist rot in Australian conditions. At MJ Leckie Carpentry, we tape every joist on every deck as a standard inclusion.

Question 7

How much does a pergola cost in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

In 2025, the average cost to build a pergola in Sydney ranges from $3,000 for a basic kit structure up to $75,000+ for a large custom insulated roofed pergola. A professionally built timber or steel pergola with a quality roof system typically sits between $15,000–$45,000. Material choice, roofing type, size, and council approval requirements all affect the final cost.

Question 8

Do pergolas and carports need council approval in NSW?

Accepted Answer

Under the NSW Exempt Development rules, a pergola or carport can be built without council approval if it does not exceed 25m² in area, is no more than 3m at its highest point, and is located at least 900mm from any side boundary. Any structure exceeding these limits requires a CDC or DA.

Question 9

How do I get a free quote from MJ Leckie Carpentry?

Accepted Answer

You can request a free site measure and written quote by calling us on 0482 088 410, emailing admin@mjleckiecarpentry.com.au, or filling out the contact form on this website. We'll arrange a convenient time to visit your property, discuss your project, and provide an accurate quote in writing. There's no obligation and no hard sell.