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I am a tenant in a strata managed block of flats, having some friction with an agent of the executive committee.
Our strata is not managed by a strata manager, instead an agent of the executive committee seems to be responsible for the administration of the building.
The flat immediately below ours has a leak in the kitchen that is apparently caused water damage. The problem is relatively serious.
Our dishwasher had some leakage problems and was fixed. However the leak downstairs is still present.
The agent of the executive committee requested to inspect our kitchen after it was fixed, which we facilitated.
He then appeared on a Sunday night at 8pm at our door and demanded to see the kitchen again.
My issue is not that he wants to inspect the kitchen – obviously he legally is able to do so – but the manner in which he goes about his duties. He does not call to ask if now is a good time, simply buzzes the apartment and demands access on the spot.
He claims that not allowing him in constitutes ‘obstruction and hindrance’ of the owners corporation and would result in us being liable for any further damages to the apartment below.
This is our home, and it is unsettling that someone can demand access to our residence on the spot, regardless of our right to privacy.
I have repeatedly asked him to call ahead, and he has responded by telling me ‘do you think I like looking for leaks on Sunday evening? If you have a problem with this contact the Dept of Fair Trading.’
I’ve tried reasoning with him and he refuses to even call ahead. I don’t want to stop him doing his job, but does he really have to walk all over us to do it? Any advice?