Roger – Can you ask the Strata manager how much money is in the Sinking Fund, don’t just take their word for it that they do not have sufficient funds? Also, ask how much the repairs will cost?
In my interpretation the OC has a strict duty to maintain and repair the common property. The OC should make the repairs FIRST and then chase the responsibility for fault costs after that. It is unreasonable to expect that maintenance is delayed until responsibility or fault is determined as this could take months. If money needs to be raised by the OC then a Special Levy is an option.