Question: We share our car space between two cars on a first home basis. We have a single remote fob for our single car space. Can the committee reasonably refuse our request for a second fob?
Our strata committee recently installed a gate at our building’s car park entrance. Each lot was issued one remote, as there is one car space per lot.
We asked the strata committee if we could pay for a second remote. We have two vehicles, and the space is used by whoever gets home first. We park the other vehicle on the street.
Our strata committee refused to allow a second fob since we only have one car space. A single remote would require pre-planning and does not consider that we work different schedules and access the car space at different times.
The strata committee should reasonably consider circumstances when making decisions. What can we do?
Answer: Give the strata committee a written undertaking that only one of your cars will parked in the car park at any one time.
You could plead your case. As there are no by-laws setting the one remote limit in stone, the restriction is arbitrary and unenforceable. Alternatively, you could ask again and give the strata committee a written undertaking that only one of your cars will parked in the car park at any one time and that it is unreasonable for you to share one remote between you.
Unfortunately, your predicament is common in many buildings (despite your bona fides). Strata committees are always trying to curb illegal parking.
If the matter is critical and you cannot reach a resolution, you could apply for mediation/NCAT orders to settle your complaint.
Leanne Habib Premium Strata E: info@premiumstrata.com.au P: 02 9281 6440