NSW: Q&A Building Appearance: Changing the appearance of the lot

 

Question: Our Strata manager demands we remove vines from our lot because they are changing the appearance of our complex.

We have planted vines around our lot which have grown but are not covering any other lot.

Our Strata managers insist we are changing the appearance of our complex and are demanding their removal.

Since we are talking about a plant which is not impacting any structural characteristics of the building, must we remove them?

Answer: Your lot is not in keeping with the uniform appearance of the building.

Your strata manager is likely correct especially since the other lots do not appear to have as much foliage as yours, therefore, your lot is not in keeping with the uniform appearance of the building.

While we are not botanists, the type of vine you have may be invasive (eg like certain types of ivy which may cause damage to brick and paintwork over time) and therefore, might be damaging the common property too.

For the full question and our detailed response, visit the original publication at Look Up Strata.

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