[Beejay]

Whale said:

Beejay – I know that this doesn’t resolve your entire problem, but if the tap that you’re referring to isolates the supply to the whole Plan, then it’s likely to be the property of your local Water Supply Authority, and they’re responsible for all maintenance & repairs.

I’d suggest you contact that Water Supply Authority yourself, and tell them that the main tap is leaking badly and that the water is affecting your garden; that may be a slight exaggeration, but it will get a timely response.

Try to be home when the maintenance people are on-site, and ask them about the procedure involved in having the tap relocated. They may not know the detail, but they’ll steer you in the right direction.

I know that you may be doing your Owners Corporation’s (O/C) work, but at least in this way you’ll know more about the situation, and you’ll be in a better position to make your point to that O/C and the Strata Manager.

Have contacted Water Board today who will fix the leak but because the water line is on private property the problem is with me the owner and the body corporate/strata management.Have also been advised that the water cannot be turned off under any circumstances.Will now have to wait for next AGM to see what if any progress can be made.

[Beejay]

PeterC said:

There seem to be some questions to ask. Is it really in your property or is there an easement of some sort on the title? I would have a look at the unit plan. Where I am there are areas people think are their private gardens but are actually common property on the unit plan. If it is on your lot how did it get there if it is not servicing your unit? If it is servicing the common property or multiple units any owner would have an interest in getting the leak fixed to save a big water bill. If it is the responsibility of the owners corporation but the leak is damaging your property you could point out that you could make a claim against the owners corporation. How do other owners get to use the tap if it is on your lot? There are restrictions on entering a lot without permission (I assume for NSW-there are in the ACT).

Yes the main is on my property and there is no easement marked on the title.I have a feeling that when the original owners subdivided some 20/30 years ago it was convenient just to leave it there.The main services all properties direct through there own water meters,so I guess the water wastage is not recorded anywhere.

[Beejay]

Whale said:

Beejay – I know that this doesn't resolve your entire problem, but if the tap that you're referring to isolates the supply to the whole Plan, then it's likely to be the property of your local Water Supply Authority, and they're responsible for all maintenance & repairs.

I'd suggest you contact that Water Supply Authority yourself …

 

Thanks for your response .The main does serve all tenants.Will make contact again with Water Board as strata management appears reluctant to do so.

[Author]

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