NSW: Will you still pay a special levy if you replace your own window?

Published April 6, 2026 By Leanne Habib, Premium Strata Leave a Comment Last Updated April 6, 2026

Question: If I replace my old window and the owners corporation decides to replace all windows in the future, will I be liable for the special levy?

I am about to renovate my unit and want to replace an old window with a louver. This process will cost about $5,000. I don’t mind paying, however, if strata want to replace all windows in the future, will I have to pay the special levy for the windows if my window is already replaced?

The committee have talked about replacing the windows for over 2 years, nothing has been done and I am just tired of waiting.

I am getting a bylaw made for my kitchen and bathroom renovations and am thinking I can just include the window replacement in this.

Answer: You may remain liable to contribute to the special levy

Yes, you may include your window works within one and the same by-law. The owners corporation may include a provision that if they do replace the windows, in case yours is not identical to their proposal (or potentially, if it is), that it is subject to replacement in the course of the owners corporation’s works (and therefore, you would remain liable to contribute to the special levy).

This post appears in the July 2021 edition of The NSW Strata Magazine.

Leanne Habib
Premium Strata
E: info@premiumstrata.com.au
P: 02 9281 6440

About Leanne Habib, Premium Strata

Leanne is leading the conversation in strata and community management across Australia. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years and holding credentials as a licensed Strata and Community Manager and Real Estate Managing Agent, Leanne has masterfully redefined the essence of premium strata service. Her approach, honed through years in senior roles within top-tier agencies, is unwaveringly client-focused, ensuring that expectations are not only met but consistently exceeded.

As a pivotal member of the Strata Community Association (SCA) and the CEO of the award-winning Premium Strata, Leanne, together with her team of seasoned strata managers, embodies a commitment to unparalleled service excellence. Beyond steering Premium Strata and Premium Building Management, her influence extends across the property industry as a leading voice. Leanne's insights on legislative updates and industry shifts are invaluable, offering guidance to lot owners on intricate strata matters and fostering effective and informed strata management practices.

Leanne is a regular contributor to Lookupstrata. You can take a look at Leanne’s articles here .

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