Is a five-yearly fire panel test mandatory in strata?
I live in an older six lot apartment block. We have monthly fire alarm tests and follow the AFSS tests and reporting. Our provider says we must undertake a five yearly fire panel review/test. The fire panel was replaced five years ago by the same company. Is the five yearly test a requirement or a recommendation?
Basement garage fire sensors: Must spacing meet current standards?
Our new fire contractor recently advised of a fire defect in our basement garage. All the heat sensors are approximately 7 metres apart except for two sensors above the ramp going from B1 to B2. These two sensors are approximately 20 metres apart.
At great expense, the fire contractor demands we install two additional sensors. Our building has been compliant since initial occupation 8 years ago. The builder insists the garage sensors are compliant. Who is right in this situation, and where is the regulation?
Do exit signs in small strata blocks need 90-minute battery backup?
For our recent fire audit, we've been told to replace exit signs that do not stay on for 90 minutes. A few of our signs only stay on for up to 80 minutes.
Is this a requirement? We only have 12 lots. If owners aren't out of the building within 10 minutes in a block this size, you would be in trouble.
How to reduce rising duplex strata insurance premiums
We own and live in a duplex. The other owners rent their duplex. Both lot owners are on very good terms and we have always come together for reasonable strata insurance.
Recently, our insurance company has increased our annual premium significantly. Is there anything we can do to find the best and most affordable insurance for our property?
How is a committee vacancy filled under the small schemes module?
What is the process of filling a committee vacancy under the small schemes module? I would appreciate clarification specifically to the Small schemes module. Given there are only 2 committee positions, can the remaining committee member appoint another eligible person to the committee or MUST an EGM be called to appoint someone to fill the vacancy?
Duplex Insurance: What fixtures and fittings are covered?
Is there a Qld-specific checklist for the fixtures and fittings in our duplex? The common items are the fences, common wall and wiring and plumbing. I have had no support from our previous or current insurer, who have both directed me to their PDS and the PDS directs me to the legislation, which does not have any type of checklist.
We require this information so we have confidence in the amount we insure the building for and how much we need for our individual contents insurance.
How is strata insurance shared in a two-lot scheme?
We own a lot in a two lot strata. One building size is 148m2, and the other is 307m2. Are we required to pay strata insurance as a percentage based on building size?
On our schedule of lot entitlements, our contribution is 1:1.
But our interest is:
- 14 - neighbour
- 11 - me and my partner
Is the owners corporation required to replace a damaged unit door?
I am 80 and lived in this building for 40 years. My muscles are atrophied. I cannot get up if I lose balance and fall to the floor. Three times, emergency personnel accessed my lot by breaking down my door. The door is no longer secure, and I do not feel safe.
Our chairperson stated the OC intended to replace all unit doors because of stairwell noise issues and asbestos concerns. I've requested my door is replaced urgently. I've been told that although unit doors are common property, under the circumstances, I am required to pay for my new door. Where do I stand?