Resident requests to install a duct in the common roof space

By admin,

Our unit block features a tiled roof with limited roof space. This space is essential for accessing common elements like the antenna and video intercom systems and for conducting roof repairs. A locked manhole secures the access.

A resident requested permission to install a duct for their exhaust fan into the common property roof space. The committee is concerned that this modification does not align with the space's original design and purpose.

Does altering the surface finish of common property need special approval?

By admin,

A committee member has proposed painting the building's exterior in acrylic paint. The exterior is currently coloured render over brick, so this would not be a like-for-like finish.

Would this change in surface texture require a special resolution?

My cash settlement does not include GST

By admin,

The owners corporation's (OC) insurer offered a cash settlement for a claim on water damage to my lot. Because the OC is registered for GST, the agreed amount was paid to the OC ex GST. I paid for the repairs, not the OC. When the OC transferred the money to me, they paid me the amount ex GST. We are now in a legal battle concerning the GST amount.

The agreed cash settlement was over $100,000, so I've lost over $10,000.

How accurate are costs for insurance and DBPA document lodgement in an engineer's scope of work?

By admin,

Our strata scheme has 33 units in two buildings. The waterproofing membrane on both roofs needs to be replaced. The roofs are a flat concrete structure, and the building was constructed in 1984.

The engineer's scope of works quoted a $35,000 premium for the HBCF insurance certificate and $20,000 for the lodgement of documents with the DBPA.

How can I check these quotes are reasonable? How do we know the insurance quote is accurate, given we have not yet gone to tender and thus do not have quotes for the repair costs?

Can we limit a majority owner’s number of votes?

By admin,

We have 135 lots in our building. A single entity owns lots under a charity-listed organisation and controls an additional five, managed and paid for by the same organisation, totalling 12.5% of lots. How many votes can a majority use at a general meeting, extraordinary meeting or AGM? Are there limits to the number of votes they have?

Can the owners corporation limit their control in some way eg with a by-law to limit their power?

Is appointing a compulsory strata manager the solution to committee dysfunction?

By admin,

After seven months with no elected office bearers, the secretary, treasurer and chair were announced at a strata meeting. The new secretary refuses to respond to any communication from owners, including legitimate questions. The next step is mediation, but owners are concerned that the outcome may be ignored. Our strata manager has also terminated and will complete their term next month.

Subscribe to