- This topic has 6 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 13 years, 6 months ago by .
-
Topic
-
We have an external light fitting in our courtyard which has been broken since we moved in. The light switch is inside our unit. The fitting is more than 2.5 metres above ground, attached to the exterior wall. We have units above us.
SM says this is not their issue as it switches on from our unit and benefits us only. However my understanding is we are responsible for 1m below, and up to 2.5m above.
Happy to get it fixed, if indeed it’s our remit but would like advice/thoughts first. Thanks.
-
Replies
-
The answer lies in who put it in. Was it always there, in which case it is likely to be the OC’s. Or was it installed later? Are there any by- laws relating to the light?
I put a light outside my backdoor, wich is operated from a switch inside my lot, so it is my responsibility.
There are other lots with the light the same as yours? Why not ask them what they do in the same circumstatnces?
But if the switch is inside your apartment then it’s probably your power that’s being used and therefore it’s your light and a service that you exclusively control.
In VIC at least, a lot owner must “maintain any service that serves that lot exclusively ” regardless if parts of the service go though or are on common property.
Get long life bulbs fitted (perhaps LEDs) and hopefully not have the problem again for a long time.
I see now that the fitting is damaged? I understood that broken meant – not working.
You don’t say which state you are in. But in VIC owners must also maintain the “appearance or outward state” of the lot. And owners must maintain services that exclusively service their lot. All this might seem a bit silly at times, but if it’s your light fitting, you are requited to maintain it. The OC can always decide to fix or maintain these things if they choose to – but it’s not compulsory. It might be wise to get OC permission before removing the fitting.
In other states the rules might vary.