Question: Can an owner object to a survey strata installing electronic driveway gates on common property if they cannot afford the cost?
I am in a four lot survey strata. The strata company proposed installing electronic gates on the common property driveway. I do not support the proposal because of the installation cost, ongoing maintenance costs, and I cannot afford it.
What options do I have to stop the installation? If it goes ahead, how are costs shared in a four lot survey strata?
Answer: You are entitled to vote against the proposal and have your objection recorded, but if it is lawfully approved by the other owners, you will be required to contribute.
The proposed installation of electronic driveway gates on common property (CP) in your survey strata must be approved at a properly convened general meeting under the Strata Titles Act 1985.
The motion must be voted on, including the costs, and the vote can be done by a majority, or you can request that it be conducted by unit entitlement. The unit entitlement on the strata plan for each of the 4 lots may be even or different.
Some issues may be raised as legitimate concerns:
- Installation cost
- Ongoing servicing
- Future motor replacement
- Emergency access issues,
There are also recognised benefits, including:
- Increased security
- Reduced unwanted access
- Potential uplift in capital value
- Greater privacy for residents
At the meeting, owners will weigh these factors.
If the motion passes, the cost becomes part of the strata levies or a special levy, and all owners must contribute according to their unit entitlement.
In summary, while there are installation and ongoing maintenance costs, there are also potential benefits such as improved security and possible increased capital value. Ultimately, you are entitled to vote against the proposal and have your objection recorded, but if it is lawfully approved by the other owners, you will be required to contribute.
This post appears in the April 2026 edition of The WA Strata Magazine.
Jamie Horner
Empire Estate Agents
E: JHorner@empireestateagents.com
P: (08) 9262 0400
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