Demystify Strata Series #3
In this series, we will cover obtaining strata permission for an outdoor umbrella, the rules regarding e-bikes in the building, the relocation of power boards for easier access for all lot owners, and common property obstructions.
As the CEO of Premium Strata, I often receive questions during General Meetings, in publications, and through direct messages that seem straightforward but are made more complex by evolving regulations and the multi-faceted responsibilities in strata schemes. To provide clarity, I’m launching a blog series to demystify strata management and tackle these practical questions head-on. Stay informed and empowered with our Demystify Strata Series.
Please note, the following posts address specific scenarios and may not apply to your scheme. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any further questions!
In our ongoing exploration of strata living, we delve into the intricacies of seeking approval for home installations within strata communities.
Imagine you’re a resident in a strata community, and you’re eager to enhance your courtyard with a stylish cantilever umbrella. You’ve found the perfect spot for it, away from common property and not attached to any walls. However, before proceeding, you wonder: “Do I need strata permission for this installation?”
Even though your umbrella is freestanding (and you are not carrying out any works per se), it may not be in keeping with the appearance of the building and the standard by-law which applies to many schemes states:
- 17 – Appearance of lot
- (1) The owner or occupier of a lot must not, without the written consent of the owners corporation, maintain within the lot anything visible from outside the lot that, viewed from outside the lot, is not in keeping with the rest of the building.
- (2) This by-law does not apply to the hanging of any washing, towel, bedding, clothing or other article as referred to in By-law 10.
We therefore recommend you seek approval from your strata managing agent/Owners Corporation to avoid any issues.
As strata residents navigate the intricacies of home installations, understanding the necessity of seeking strata permission is crucial. This scenario highlights the importance of considering strata by-laws and seeking approval to ensure compliance and harmony within the community.
With the increasing popularity of e-bikes, many strata communities are facing challenges in mitigating the fire risk associated with storing these vehicles in apartments. As lithium batteries become more prevalent, concerns about fire hazards have been heightened, necessitating proactive measures to ensure safety within strata buildings.
One of the unit owners in our building stores their electric bike in their apartment. Recent news reports have highlighted the fire hazards associated with lithium batteries, raising safety concerns. How should we address this issue with the owner? Is banning e-bikes from the building the only solution? While we understand the owner’s enjoyment of riding their bike, safety must remain our top priority.
While outright banning e-bikes may not be feasible, implementing appropriate by-laws that govern their storage and usage is recommended to mitigate the associated risks. The owners corporation may also consider installing fire-safe charging stations on the common property. Additionally, exploring the installation of fire-safe charging stations on the common property is another proactive measure worth considering.
As strata communities navigate this issue, striking a balance between safety concerns and residents’ enjoyment of e-bikes is crucial. Open dialogue and proactive measures can help address fire risks while allowing residents to continue enjoying their preferred mode of transportation.
In our ongoing exploration of strata living, we confront scenarios where access to common infrastructure becomes a point of contention among lot owners.
Imagine residing in a two-lot strata scheme, where one lot owner denies access to the body corporate’s powerboard located on their wall. Your strata manager suggests splitting the powerboard and relocating your half to grant access, insisting that costs must be shared. You’re left wondering: “Is this true? Are there alternative solutions to avoid substantial expenses while still gaining access?”
“Common Infrastructure,” previously referred to as “structural cubic space,” generally encompasses any pipes, wires, cables, etc., not exclusively enjoyed by one lot, making it automatically common property, even if situated within a private lot. The Owners Corporation holds access rights and the responsibility to repair and maintain such areas.
As the area housing the powerboard is common property, any alterations or relocations would entail costs borne by the Owners Corporation. These costs are typically on-charged to owners based on their unit entitlements, as determined by the split your strata manager mentions.
While splitting and relocating the powerboard may seem like a costly solution, it ensures equitable access to essential infrastructure for all lot owners. Exploring alternative solutions with your strata manager, such as mediation or negotiation with the other lot owner, could offer potential avenues to resolve the issue more amicably and cost-effectively.
As strata residents navigate disputes over access to common infrastructure, understanding the implications of strata by-laws and the responsibilities of the Owners Corporation is essential for fostering harmonious community living.
In the lush greenery of shared common areas, where beautiful plants and perfectly fitted pieces of gym equipment find their place, a common scenario unfolds for strata residents.
Amidst the beauty of a shared back patio, a neighbour’s array of pot plants thrives in all shapes and sizes, adorning the space with vibrant life. Recently, they added a small piece of gym equipment, discreetly nestled in the corner of their side of the shared patio. Surprisingly, despite its unobtrusive presence, they find themselves bombarded with frequent letters of complaint under their door, citing their supposed abuse of strata living. Are they in the wrong by leaving this inconspicuous bar outside?
In the realm of shared spaces, understanding the by-laws governing common areas is paramount. It appears that both the neighbour’s extensive pot plant collection and the unobtrusive addition of the gym equipment could be considered ‘obstructing’ common property without proper permission from the Owners Corporation. Checking the specific by-laws applicable to their scheme is advisable to ensure compliance and harmony within the strata community. Most importantly, any obstructions in common property can’t cause a blockage to fire exits, access to powerboards, etc.
