ROUNDUP: Tying myself in knots over NCAT loophole
Bear with me folks, because the so-called strataguru is stumped. A couple of weeks ago my colleague and partner Sue Williams wrote this story that basically said the whole strata by-law…
Past Posts
These posts go all the way back to the raw versions of my Flat Chat columns for the Sydney Morning Herald’s Domain section over th e past 15 years. Some of the issues are specific to New South Wales, some are universal. There will almost certainly be differences in strata law between NSW and other states and countries and the laws have changed over that timespan too.
If you have a serious problem, contact the agencies (in Australia) listed in our contacts sections. Or contact a properly qualified and experienced strata lawyer. These columns should not be regarded as a substitute for professional legal advice.
‘Time running out for cladding claims’ – lawyer
The clock is ticking for strata owners if they are to have any hope of getting the people responsible for illegal composite aluminium cladding on their buildings to pay for…
The neighbours are revolting: how to organise a strata coup
As I sat, just last week, preparing to return to Sydney from Saigon, I was surrounded by posters celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Russian revolution. Back in Strataland, I…
Strata charges – a question of cheques and balances
How much can you – or should you – trust the professionals who are contracted by your owners corporation? Bearing in mind the major factors at play here – owners’…
Roundup: Another fine mess as NCAT floored by loophole
Once again, the Flat Chat Faithful have done us proud by tipping us off to a big deal; this time it’s a story that reveals a fairly major loophole in…
Why you need to fine landlords who don’t register tenants
It’s funny how the whole holiday letting issue is shaking out a lot of strata and council laws, especially the unenforceable ones. And before we go any further, this is not…
Roundup: New commissioner – same old story?
So we have a new Fair Trading Commissioner. Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean this week announced the appointment of Rose Webb to the NSW Fair Trading hot seat. Mr…
Whine like an old modem but don’t expect faster internet
With all the conflicting reports about NBN in the media at the moment, you could burn up half your download allowance scouring the internet for the best option for your…
Stamp duty: Hard floors and high anxiety
A funny little notice appeared in our lifts this week, headlined “Hard Floors and High Heels”. Apart from sounding like a Pedro Almodovar movie, it was a simple request for…
Strata managers back a better cladding deal for owners
Strata management unbrella organisation Strata Community Australia say they are stepping up their fight for fairness as the issue of non-compliant aluminium cladding hits strata owners across Australia. And the…
Roundup: Punch-ups predicted as party animals fly in
Flat Chat was on a panel at a conference of barristers in Sydney last week, talking about the “sharing” economy and how new technologies are changing or lives. One of…
By-laws review: Beware the rusty ratchet effect
Tucked away near the end of the new strata laws that came into force in NSW almost a year ago is a requirement which is being widely ignored but should…