Laundry policy won’t wash
QUESTION: My unit block has a policy of not allowing laundry on the communal line overnight. Recently two jumpers left overnight by a tenant were bagged with a note saying,…
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.
Builders crack in parking by-law
QUESTION: I rent in a unit block that’s about to undergo major work and the executive committee have put up signs telling us the builders need 24-hour access and any…
The sound of silence
Freedom of speech is a right we pretty much take for granted – but does it even exist in strata? QUESTION: The strata Act seems to be silent on speaking…
Rejected and dejected
QUESTION: I’m originally from the UK and my partner is Aussie. We are in good jobs and can easily afford the rent but whenever we apply for a property it…
Can’t pay, won’t pay
We’ve had a couple of questions about unpaid levies and what you can do about them. “Is there anyone in the real world who thinks a large strata plan with…
When things are bad … but not bad enough
There have been a few postings to the Flat Chat Forum recently about how to change things when your executive committee seems to operate only for the benefit of a…
Turn up heat over stove
QUESTION: In January this year my two student children rented a two-bedroom unit in Coogee, offering $20 a week over the asking price ($550) to secure the rental. The managing…
Air-con units are uncool
QUESTION: Some time in the past, two previous owners in our 1960s block installed those ugly window mounted air conditioning units. The strata records shows no mention of the units,…
Dog driving me barking mad
QUESTION: My neighbour leaves his dog outside on their terrace all the time and it barks constantly. I’ve spoken to the strata manager, the executive committee and the neighbour, but…
Planter plight
QUESTION: My new rented apartment has planter boxes right up against the balcony balustrade and the other day I found my four-year-old climbing up to look over the side. After…
Strata – a pop quiz
The first strata titles legislation in the world was created right here in NSW exactly 50 years ago. But how much do you know about it? Considering half the population…
How to fix strata, Mr Premier
Just over a week ago, 7.30 on the ABC reported on the “secret” rent scam of high-rise buildings being infested with over-crowded apartments and the scandalous gaps in the law…