I am one of nine owners in a strata block. I recently had to access a room under our building, which is common area, to allow access for a plumber to investigate pipes.
I was told by another owner that she had the one set of keys and any access to that common area, which sits under her apartment, would have to go through her. She said an agreement had been made in earlier years that only she was allowed to have keys to this area, due to security concerns.
Her apartment is directly above this common area and she said she is concerned that someone will break into her place. She has been unable to provide any documents proving any agreement was made to allow her exclusive use and access to this common area and there is no inclusion of it in our building bylaws.
I borrowed the key and told her I would be getting a copy. She is now saying she gave me no authorisation to do this and has had the locks changed.
I have alerted our EC, all owners in the building and our Strata Manager. Those who have held their apartments for longer than the owner who is denying anyone access to this common area, have also confirmed that they have never heard of an agreement being made for one owner to have exclusive access to this common area.They have also said they do not agree with this owner’s action.
It appears to be very evident that this woman has acted illegally.
Can you advise, confirm if this is the case?
And what action can be taken to get her to give access, ie a key, to every owner in the building.
