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Do You Need a QS Report for Your Development Application?
One of the most common questions we receive from homeowners, architects and developers is whether their council requires an independent Quantity Surveyor report as part of the Development Application process.
The honest answer is that requirements vary between NSW councils. Some councils require a signed independent QS report for all DAs above a certain development cost threshold. Others require a Cost Summary Report or EDC Report only for specific application types or above higher thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, Complying Development Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications, not just Development Applications. Understanding what your specific council requires before lodging your application can save time, avoid delays and prevent your DA being returned for additional information.
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares independent DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates, Building Cost Reports, EDC Reports and other independent QS assessments for applications submitted to councils throughout Sydney and Regional NSW. Below is a summary of the councils we regularly prepare reports for and their general requirements.
About DA Reports
What is a DA Cost Report?
A DA Cost Report - also known as a DA Cost Summary Report, Council Cost Estimate, Building Cost Report for Council, Development Application Cost Estimate or QS Report for Council - is an independent assessment of the estimated construction cost of a proposed development, prepared by a qualified Quantity Surveyor and submitted as part of a Development Application or other planning approval.
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NSW councils use these reports to determine applicable development levies, infrastructure contributions, s7.11 contributions (formerly s94 contributions), s7.12 levies and other council fees and charges based on the estimated development cost. The specific terminology used varies between councils, but the underlying purpose is the same — to provide an independent, credible assessment of the cost of the proposed development.
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Reports may be required for:
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Development Applications (DAs)
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Construction Certificates (CCs)
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Complying Development Certificates (CDCs)
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Section 4.55 modifications
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Section 4.56 modifications
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Review of Determination applications
What is an EDC Report?
An Estimated Development Cost (EDC) Report is a more formally structured independent assessment of development costs prepared in accordance with NSW Planning Circular PS25-004 (which replaced the earlier PS24-002 and PS23-003 circulars). EDC Reports are required where the development cost exceeds applicable thresholds set by the relevant council or planning authority.
EDC Reports are sometimes referred to as:
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Estimated Development Cost Reports
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EDC Assessments
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Independent Cost Assessments
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PS25-004 Reports
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Quantity Surveyor EDC Reports
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Independent QS Cost Assessments
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares EDC Reports in accordance with the current NSW Planning Circular PS25-004 requirements, ensuring reports meet the current standards required by NSW councils and the NSW Department of Planning.
Sydney Councils
Northern Beaches Council
Northern Beaches Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications where the estimated development cost exceeds applicable thresholds. For larger developments, an independent EDC Report prepared by a Certified Quantity Surveyor may also be required. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and Complying Development Certificates submitted to Northern Beaches Council.
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Northern Beaches Council processes one of the highest volumes of residential Development Applications in Greater Sydney, with consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across suburbs including Manly, Dee Why, Collaroy, Narrabeen, Mona Vale, Newport, Avalon and Palm Beach.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Northern Beaches Council. Reports can be prepared quickly to suit your DA lodgement programme without the need for a site inspection in most cases.
Waverley Council
Waverley Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications where the estimated development cost exceeds applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications submitted to Waverley Council. The Eastern Suburbs market generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Reports and EDC Reports across suburbs including Bondi, Bondi Beach, Bronte, Clovelly and Tamarama.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Waverley Council with fast turnaround to suit your DA submission programme.
Woollahra Municipal Council
Woollahra Municipal Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and Section 4.55 modifications. Woollahra is one of Sydney's most active heritage and prestige residential DA markets, with consistent demand for QS reports and independent cost assessments across Double Bay, Rose Bay, Vaucluse, Paddington and Woollahra.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Woollahra Municipal Council.
Randwick City Council
Randwick City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications where the estimated development cost exceeds applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Randwick generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across suburbs including Randwick, Coogee, Maroubra, Kensington, Kingsford and Clovelly.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Randwick City Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Ku-ring-gai Council
Ku-ring-gai Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. The Ku-ring-gai LGA is one of Sydney's most active upper North Shore DA markets, with consistent demand for QS reports and Council Cost Estimates across St Ives, Wahroonga, Turramurra, Pymble, Gordon, Killara, Lindfield and Roseville.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Ku-ring-gai Council.
City of Ryde
The City of Ryde requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications submitted to Ryde City Council. The Ryde LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across suburbs including Ryde, West Ryde, Meadowbank, Gladesville, Shepherds Bay and Putney.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to the City of Ryde with fast turnaround and fixed fee quotes.
Canterbury-Bankstown Council
Canterbury-Bankstown Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. Canterbury-Bankstown is one of Sydney's highest volume DA markets, with consistently strong demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and Council Cost Estimates across Bankstown, Campsie, Canterbury, Lakemba, Punchbowl, Revesby, Padstow and surrounding suburbs.
CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Canterbury-Bankstown Council. Reports can be prepared quickly without the need for a site inspection in most cases.
The Hills Shire Council
The Hills Shire Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. The Hills District is one of Sydney's most active residential DA markets, with high demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills, Kellyville, Rouse Hill, Box Hill, Cherrybrook and Dural.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to The Hills Shire Council with fast turnaround to suit your DA programme.
Campbelltown City Council
Campbelltown City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Campbelltown LGA is one of South Western Sydney's most active residential DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Campbelltown, Minto, Ingleburn, Leumeah, Eagle Vale, Ruse, Bradbury and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Campbelltown City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Hawkesbury City Council
Hawkesbury City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Hawkesbury LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across Windsor, Richmond, North Richmond, Vineyard and surrounding rural and semi-rural areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Hawkesbury City Council including rural and acreage projects throughout the Hawkesbury region.
North Sydney Council
North Sydney Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to North Sydney Council. The North Sydney LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and independent QS assessments across North Sydney, Kirribilli, Cammeray, Crows Nest, St Leonards and Waverton.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to North Sydney Council.
Georges River Council
Georges River Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications submitted to Georges River Council. The Georges River LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Hurstville, Kogarah, Rockdale, Mortdale, Penshurst, Oatley, Carss Park and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Georges River Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Bayside Council
Bayside Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Bayside LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Rockdale, Brighton-Le-Sands, Bexley, Arncliffe, Banksia, Mascot, Botany, Eastgardens and Pagewood.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Bayside Council with fast turnaround and fixed fee quotes.
Canada Bay Council
Canada Bay Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. The Canada Bay LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across Five Dock, Drummoyne, Concord, Rhodes, Mortlake, Cabarita and Canada Bay.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Canada Bay Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Inner West Council
Inner West Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to Inner West Council. The Inner West LGA is one of Sydney's most active heritage and residential renovation markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Balmain, Rozelle, Glebe, Newtown, Marrickville, Dulwich Hill, Petersham, Stanmore, Enmore, Leichhardt, Annandale, Haberfield, Ashfield, Croydon, Summer Hill and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Inner West Council. Reports can be prepared quickly without the need for a site inspection in most cases, with fixed fee quotes provided within hours of receiving the project information.
Liverpool City Council
Liverpool City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Liverpool LGA is one of South Western Sydney's most active and fastest growing residential DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Liverpool, Casula, Moorebank, Prestons, Edmondson Park, Leppington, Green Valley and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Liverpool City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Willoughby City Council
Willoughby City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to Willoughby City Council. The Willoughby LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Chatswood, Artarmon, Naremburn, Castlecrag, Middle Cove, Northbridge, Willoughby and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Willoughby City Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Blacktown City Council
Blacktown City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. Blacktown City Council is one of the highest volume DA councils in Greater Sydney, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Blacktown, Seven Hills, Toongabbie, Pendle Hill, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, Schofields, Riverstone, Marsden Park, Rouse Hill and surrounding suburbs.
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Blacktown City Council with fast turnaround and fixed fee quotes provided within hours of receiving the project information.
Cumberland Council
Cumberland Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to Cumberland Council. The Cumberland LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Merrylands, Guildford, Auburn, Granville, Pemulwuy, Greystanes, Woodville, Wentworthville and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Cumberland Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Mosman Municipal Council
Mosman Municipal Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to Mosman Municipal Council. The Mosman LGA is one of Sydney's most prestigious residential DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, independent QS assessments and EDC Reports across Mosman, Cremorne, Cremorne Point, Balmoral, Beauty Point and surrounding harbour side suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Mosman Municipal Council with fast turnaround and no site inspection required in most cases.
Parramatta City Council
Parramatta City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. Parramatta City Council is one of Greater Sydney's most active DA markets, with significant residential, commercial and mixed-use development generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Parramatta, Westmead, Northmead, North Parramatta, Wentworthville, Granville, Harris Park, Merrylands, Woodville and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Parramatta City Council with fast turnaround and fixed fee quotes provided within hours of receiving the project information.
Regional NSW Councils
Central Coast Council
Central Coast Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Central Coast generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Gosford, Wyong, Terrigal, Erina, Woy Woy, Umina Beach and surrounding areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Central Coast Council. Most reports can be prepared remotely without the need for a site inspection.
Wollongong City Council
Wollongong City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. The Wollongong LGA generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Building Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, Thirroul, Corrimal, Dapto and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Wollongong City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Shoalhaven City Council
Shoalhaven City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Shoalhaven region generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across Nowra, Huskisson, Vincentia, Jervis Bay, Ulladulla and Milton.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Shoalhaven City Council. Reports can be prepared remotely without the need for a site inspection in most cases.
Tweed Shire Council
Tweed Shire Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications submitted to Tweed Shire Council. The Tweed region generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Tweed Heads, Kingscliff, Casuarina, Pottsville and surrounding areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Tweed Shire Council with remote delivery in most cases.
Byron Shire Council
Byron Shire Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. Byron Shire is one of regional NSW's most active and prestigious residential DA markets, with consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Byron Bay, Bangalow, Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby and Suffolk Park.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors regularly prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Byron Shire Council with remote delivery and fast turnaround.
Ballina Shire Council
Ballina Shire Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Ballina region generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville and surrounding areas.
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Ballina Shire Council with remote delivery in most cases.
Coffs Harbour City Council
Coffs Harbour City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Coffs Harbour generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Building Cost Estimates across Coffs Harbour, Sawtell, Toormina and surrounding areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Coffs Harbour City Council with remote delivery and fast turnaround in most cases.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The region generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Braidwood and surrounding areas.
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council with remote delivery in most cases.
Newcastle City Council
Newcastle City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications submitted to Newcastle City Council. Newcastle is one of regional NSW's largest and most active DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Newcastle CBD, Newcastle East, Merewether, Hamilton, Islington, Mayfield, Waratah and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Newcastle City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Lake Macquarie City Council
Lake Macquarie City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Lake Macquarie is one of the largest LGAs in NSW by population, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and EDC Reports across Charlestown, Glendale, Cardiff, Warners Bay, Belmont, Morisset, Toronto and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Lake Macquarie City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Maitland City Council
Maitland City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. The Maitland LGA is one of the Hunter Valley's fastest growing residential markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Maitland, East Maitland, Rutherford, Thornton, Metford, Aberglasslyn and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Maitland City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Port Macquarie is one of regional NSW's fastest growing coastal centres, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Laurieton, Lake Cathie and surrounding areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Wagga Wagga City Council
Wagga Wagga City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates, CDC applications and Section 4.55 modifications. Wagga Wagga is the largest inland city in NSW and generates consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Wagga Wagga, Turvey Park, Estella, Forest Hill, Bourkelands and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Wagga Wagga City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Albury City Council
Albury City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Albury is one of regional NSW's most active residential and commercial DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Albury, Lavington, Thurgoona, Wirlinga and surrounding suburbs.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Albury City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Orange City Council
Orange City Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Orange is one of the Central West's most active residential and commercial DA markets, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports across Orange, Lucknow, Bloomfield and surrounding areas.
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Orange City Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
Bathurst Regional Council
Bathurst Regional Council requires an independent Cost Summary Report for Development Applications above applicable thresholds. Reports may also be required for Construction Certificates and CDC applications. Bathurst is one of regional NSW's most active and historically significant regional centres, generating consistent demand for DA Cost Reports and Council Cost Estimates across Bathurst, Kelso, Eglinton, Perthville and surrounding areas.
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CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports, Council Cost Estimates and EDC Reports for projects submitted to Bathurst Regional Council with fast turnaround and remote delivery in most cases.
What is the Difference Between a DA Cost Summary Report and an EDC Report?
These two report types are closely related but serve slightly different purposes and are required in different circumstances.
A DA Cost Summary Report — also known as a Council Cost Estimate, Building Cost Report for Council, Development Application Cost Estimate or QS Report for Council — is an independent assessment of the estimated construction cost of a development prepared by a qualified Quantity Surveyor and submitted as part of a Development Application. It is used by councils to determine applicable development levies, infrastructure contributions, s7.11 contributions, s7.12 levies and other council fees and charges based on the estimated development cost.
An Estimated Development Cost (EDC) Report is a more formally structured independent assessment prepared in accordance with NSW Planning Circular PS25-004. EDC Reports are commonly required for Development Applications, Construction Certificates, Complying Development Certificates and Section 4.55 modifications where the development cost exceeds applicable thresholds.
In practice the two terms are often used interchangeably by councils and applicants. The specific report type required will depend on the council and the nature of the application. CPP Quantity Surveyors can prepare both report types and will confirm which is required for your specific council and application type.
Do I Need a QS Report for a CDC or Construction Certificate?
Yes, in many cases. While DA Cost Reports are the most commonly requested report type, independent QS reports are also commonly required for:
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Construction Certificates (CCs) where the development cost exceeds applicable council thresholds
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Complying Development Certificates (CDCs) for certain complying development types above applicable cost thresholds
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Section 4.55 modifications where the modification results in a material change to the estimated development cost
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Section 4.56 modifications in certain circumstances where development costs are affected
If you are unsure whether your CC, CDC or Section 4.55 application requires an independent QS report, contact us and we will advise based on your council and application type.
What About s7.11 and s7.12 Contributions?
Many NSW councils calculate s7.11 infrastructure contributions (formerly s94 contributions) and s7.12 fixed rate levies based on the estimated development cost. An independent DA Cost Report or EDC Report prepared by a qualified Quantity Surveyor provides councils with a credible, independent basis for calculating these contributions.
Where a council requires an independent cost assessment specifically for the purposes of calculating s7.11 or s7.12 contributions, CPP Quantity Surveyors can prepare an independent DA Cost Report or EDC Report that satisfies this requirement.
How Much Do DA Cost Reports and EDC Reports Cost?
Our DA Reports start from $660 including GST for standard residential projects. Fees vary depending on the complexity and scope of the project and the specific council requirements.
We provide fixed fee, no obligation quotes, often within hours of receiving the project information. Contact us or submit a quote request for a fee proposal specific to your project and council.
How Quickly Can You Prepare a Report?
Most DA Cost Reports and EDC Reports can be completed within one to five business days of receiving the required documentation. Urgent turnaround is available in most cases. If your DA submission has a deadline please advise us when you make contact and we will do our best to accommodate your timeframe.
FAQ
Can I Submit My Own Cost Estimate to Council Instead of Getting a QS Report?
Some NSW councils accept a self-assessed development cost figure from the applicant up to certain thresholds. Above those thresholds an independent report from a qualified Quantity Surveyor is required. The threshold varies between councils. If you are unsure whether your project requires an independent QS report or whether a self-assessed figure is acceptable, contact us and we will advise based on your council and estimated development cost.
What Happens if My Development Cost is Underestimated?
Underestimating the development cost in a DA submission can create problems at later approval stages, particularly when a Construction Certificate or CDC is sought and an independent QS report is required. A significant discrepancy between the DA cost figure and the independently assessed cost can result in additional contributions being levied by the council and delays to your approval. An independent report prepared at DA stage reduces this risk.
Can You Prepare a Report if My DA Has Already Been Lodged?
Yes. We regularly prepare DA Cost Reports and EDC Reports for applications that have already been lodged where the council has requested an independent QS assessment as a condition of their assessment. Contact us with your council reference number and documentation and we will prepare the report as quickly as possible to avoid delays to your DA assessment.
Do Your Reports Meet Current NSW Planning Requirements?
Yes. All EDC Reports prepared by CPP Quantity Surveyors are prepared in accordance with the current NSW Planning Circular PS25-004 and meet the requirements of NSW councils and the NSW Department of Planning. We monitor changes to NSW planning requirements and update our reports accordingly.
Can You Prepare Reports for Both the DA and the Construction Certificate for the Same Project?
Yes. We regularly prepare reports at both the DA stage and the Construction Certificate stage for the same project. If the scope of works has changed between lodgement of the DA and the CC application, we will assess the updated scope and prepare a revised report reflecting the current development cost.
I Have Received a Notice from Council Requesting an Independent QS Report. How Quickly Can You Help?
We understand that council requests for additional information often come with tight timeframes. In most cases we can prepare a DA Cost Report or EDC Report within one to five business days of receiving the required documentation. If you have received a council request with a specific deadline please contact us immediately and we will do our best to accommodate your timeframe.
Do You Prepare Reports for Councils Not Listed on This Page?
Yes. While the councils listed above represent the areas we most regularly service, CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Reports and EDC Reports for Development Applications submitted to all NSW councils. If your council is not listed above please contact us to discuss your requirements.