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Topic
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I have a doormat at my unit front, door which is in the foyer and therefore on common property. It’s a small mat and not a trip hazard.
Does the OC need to approve this?
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Replies
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Roger – Without knowing what your particular by-laws are a door mat could offend a couple of by-laws such as: not leaving belongings on common property; not changing the appearance of a lot; not installing anything that could cause a safety hazard for the common property or the Lot; and not reducing the level of fire safety for the building.
However, common sense should apply.
Do a quick check of the building to see if other apartments also have a doormat. If you see other door mats then you should be OK. If you don’t …. then you may have a problem.
If your door mat was a safety issue then it will be noted on the next health and safety audit for your building and there would be a justifiable reason for you to be asked to remove it.
The following article provides a warning about trip hazards in strata:
https://lawyerschambers.com.au/owners-corporation-ordered-to-pay-150000-to-injured-lot-owner/
I would follow Ms Penelope’s advice. Look around, check, be sensible and probably just do it but be prepared to take it back in if people complain.
At a recent safety inspection we were advised:
External doorways (entry to carpark) – “Please ensure that the mat obstructing walkway in front of Unit xxxx and elsewhere throughout the complex are removed as soon as possible, as this currently represents a minor tripping / fire emergency / personal injury hazard”
and
Internal doorways/hallways – “We recommend that the door mats are replaced with low profile, non-curl, non-slip floor mats in the internal doorways throughout the complex”.
Hi,
I would seek approval, in the event of someone tripping on it you would be responsible.
If the OC approve and the event occurs the focus is shifted from you personally & onto the building strata scheme.
It is in the common area of the building.
Bye
Digby
@Digby said:
I would seek approval … If the OC approve and the event occurs the focus is shifted from you personally & onto the building strata scheme.Which is precisely why most OCs won’t approve owners’ mats on common property.
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I too am having this issue.My wife and I along with a 3 year old kid recently moved into a brand new unit. A few weeks in, we were told by a neighbour not to put a doormat outside at the entrance to our unit.The hallway isnt carpeted like most units which makes it easy for dirt and dust to come into the unit. With rain, or wet floors, it will just make matters worst.We are a working couple so cleaning the house regularly is a challenge. For hygienic reasons, we do not keep our footwear on within the unitWhat I am keen to know is if there is a way for me to stand my ground and leave the doormat at its place. Appreciate your input on this matter.You are better to take everything inside your flat where you get to decide what to do. Try low-profile mat like this one and/or an internal door seal like this one or this one.
There are other similar products available – these are just to give you an idea.
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