What documents do I need to renovate my strata bathroom?
I'm planning to renovate the existing bathroom in my lot. What documents do I need to submit to the owners corporation for approval?
What should an owner do if they stain the body corporate carpet?
I'm an owner in a large body corporate. I was carrying shopping back to my unit when a bottle of red cordial split and spilt onto the carpet in our hallway. The hallway is common property.
There's a noticeable stain. I don't think anyone witnessed the accident. Should I tell the body corporate and what might it cost me if I do?
Jenny Mills
As Claims Manager at BAC Insurance Brokers, Jenny Mills brings 17 years of insurance experience, including 11 years with BAC. A Senior Associate CIP ANZIIF, Jenny specialises in complex strata claims management, helping strata communities navigate challenging claim scenarios through clear guidance, strong insurer advocacy and practical solutions. Her focus is on reducing uncertainty and achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.
Can our body corporate manager pass on credit card fees?
Our body corporate manager has written to all owners saying that all credit card fees will be automatically charged to the body corporate from 1 October.
The body corporate hasn't been given any opportunity to decide on this. Is this a variation of our contract without consultation? Is it legal?
Daniel Barber
Daniel Barber is Planning Director at Paro Consulting, a Sydney-based town planning practice. He holds a Bachelor of Planning (Hons) and a Master of Property Development, and is a Registered Planner (RP+) with Environmental Impact Assessment accreditation. Daniel regularly advises owners' corporations, strata managers, building consultants and remedial contractors across NSW on the approval pathways for repair and upgrade works to existing buildings, from exempt development and complying development certificates through to development applications and modifications.
Sebastien Klaar
Sebastien Klaar is Brosnan Australia’s Executive Director, with more than a decade of experience delivering construction and remedial projects across Australia. Trained in Northern European sustainable design and construction, he brings a practical understanding of how building performance, compliance, and remediation intersect. Sebastien has led teams repairing and improving residential, strata, and commercial buildings affected by design, construction, and durability issues, giving him first-hand insight into the challenges faced by owners corporations and building managers.
DA, a CDC, or no approval at all? Check before you start remedial works
Planning remedial works on your scheme? For many schemes, understanding the approvals required for remedial works can be one of the most confusing and costly parts of a project. Waterproofing, balconies, façades, fire safety, windows, or structural repairs all need the right approval pathway, and choosing the wrong one can mean delays, extra costs, and compliance headaches.