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[monique10]

I want to apply to my Owners Corporation for permission to put in bi-fold doors.  It is an 18 apartment block built in 1973 so technically the current sliding balcony doors belong to the owner but obviously would change the appearance.  The sliding doors are original and many need new rollers, etc.  I have lived in the block for six years and applications are always a battle.  Only four owner occupiers live there and only 8 – 9 people ever attend the AGM.  One investor is incredibly difficult, she has owned her apartment for 30 years, rents it out and objects to EVERYTHING but she is one vote.

Do I have to pay for a by-law draft first to submit that to the AGM?  I applied for an awning about four years ago and that was passed by the Executive.  I then paid for a by-law which was passed by the Owners Corporation.  If only those who attend the AGM vote, is it based on 75% of those votes or do all 18 apartments have to vote?  The bulk of the owners are investors and never pay any interest in voting.

We have a new Strata Manager who has told me I have to outlay at least $800 for the by-law and pay for a special extraordinary meeting if I don’t want to wait for the AGM.  However, I am concerned that I will have to pay this money and it could be knocked back.  I would then have to go to NCAT which I have heard can be a nightmare.  Am I able to just have the request included in the agenda and it to be voted on?  I would then proceed with the bylaw and registration if approved.

There is another owner who is keen and it would be good for owners to have the option of bi-fold doors which wouldn’t really look that much different to the sliding doors once they were open.  My apartment is on the top floor at the back of the building so I wouldn’t be altering the view from the street with my bi-folds.

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