Duplex builder in Strathfield

Strathfield is known for its large blocks and grand Victorian, Federation and inter-war homes, and its planning rules are some of the most complex in Sydney. AGA Building is a family-run, licensed builder based in Rydalmere. We’ll tell you honestly whether a duplex suits your Strathfield block, then design, get approval for and build it, with Andrew supervising every job on site.

Can you build a duplex in Strathfield?

Sometimes, but it takes more checking than in most suburbs. Three things decide it:

1. Which council your block is in

Strathfield the suburb is split between three councils, and each has its own rules:

• Strathfield Council covers most of the suburb.
• City of Canada Bay covers a small section north of the main railway line.
• Burwood Council covers the area east of The Boulevarde.

2. The 2024 rule change

For many years, Strathfield Council didn’t allow duplexes in most of its R2 low density house streets. Since July 2024, NSW rules allow duplexes in R2 zones across the state, which opened up much of Strathfield for the first time. Local controls, such as minimum lot sizes, frontage, setbacks and landscaping, still apply.

3. Heritage

Much of Strathfield is covered by heritage conservation areas, and many homes are individually heritage-listed. A duplex may still be possible, but council will look closely at demolition and at how the new homes fit the street. On some blocks, a new single home or a renovation and extension will be the better choice, and we’ll say so.

Nearby, the areas around Homebush, Flemington, North Strathfield and Burwood stations are covered by the NSW Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, where duplexes are allowed on lots of 450 m² and 12 m wide. Blocks on the edges of Strathfield may fall inside these areas.

Other things we check on Strathfield blocks

• Trees. Large established trees are common and often protected.
• Frontage and setbacks. Strathfield expects generous street setbacks and landscaping, which shapes the design.
• Flooding. Some low-lying streets near creeks and canals can be flood-affected.

CDC or DA in Strathfield?

Because of heritage and local character controls, most Strathfield duplexes go through a development application (DA) to council rather than a complying development certificate (CDC). We prepare the design with this in mind and manage the approval for you, including the heritage and arborist reports.

Duplexes we’ve built

We’ve designed and built duplexes in West Ryde, Ermington and Rydalmere, and we also build in nearby Concord.

How we build your Strathfield duplex

1. Free block check. Council, zoning, heritage, trees, lot size and frontage.
2. Design. Homes that respect the street’s character and meet Strathfield’s setback and landscaping controls.
3. Approval. Usually a DA, with heritage, arborist and stormwater reports.
4. Demolition and construction. Andrew runs the site and keeps you updated.
5. Handover. A final walkthrough, with every certificate and warranty document.

Strathfield duplex questions

Is my house heritage-listed or in a conservation area?

A Section 10.7 planning certificate from your council will show it, or you can search your address on the NSW Planning Portal. We check this as part of our free block check.

Is a duplex better than a single new home in Strathfield?

It depends on the block, the heritage controls and your goals. On some blocks a duplex adds real value; on others a single home or a renovation is the smarter choice. We’ll give you an honest view.

What will a Strathfield duplex cost?

Size, finishes, heritage requirements and the approval path all affect the cost. Our duplex cost guide covers the main costs, and we’ll give you a realistic budget once we’ve seen the block.

General information, current as of October 2026. Planning controls in Strathfield are complex and change often, so always confirm the rules for your property with your council or a certifier. Source: NSW Planning – Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy.