[Tenacious]

I’m in Sydney, in an older block which has at least three large, mature shade trees at the front, but only one at the back, my side of the block. The former OC committee chair decided to have it cut down, as it was  taking too much water from the pipes or some other excuse – none of the residents, both owners and tenants were told about it, and I only realised what was happening when I saw the chainsaws at work.  I took the OC to NCAT (the Chair wouldn’t answer any questions and I also pointed out that she was breach of Ryde Council’s rules that trees chopped down must be replaced to similar height and species. It took NCAT to force the OC to replant, which unwillingly, they did. And I’m careful to keep both eyes open and water them – three were planted in the end- regularly.

Take the case to NCAT – it’s worth it.  Oh, and I also realised that SM will follow directions from OCs without question even if they know it’s inappropriate or bordering on the illegal.

[Tenacious]

Sorry didn’t get around to reply – my understanding of a quorum was always that it had to an uneven number -so that someone could have the casting vote. We currently have four committee members, three of whom seem to vote en bloc (usually for something unnecessary and expensive, imho). And on new members – a former EC member resigned at the last AGM and was not replaced – do we have to wait until another AGM or ESM to vote more members on?

Huge grateful thanks for any advice!

[Tenacious]

Thank you Jill Saunders for focusing on the real problem with long term renting (or even short term).

A couple of years ago I had to move to Sydney to cope with a family emergency; I let a double room in my Canberra townhouse to a mature-age student whom I felt would be stable and responsible, and on the understanding that I kept  one room for myself that I would use every so often (once every two or three months, as it turned out).

At first all went well, his rent was paid promptly by a family member and I was reassured every time I visited that there were no problems, although I did notice his tendency to use most of the living space as a study/library.

However some time later when I visited I noticed he’d moved heavy bookcases (with heavy books) into his room, seemingly barricading himself in) and when I questioned him about it, he was strangely evasive. I rang his university -fortuitously I myself had tutored there- and was told he was no longer a student, and I should contact a mental health service as privacy issues wee involved.  I had to go back to Sydney but tried to maintain contact but he turned aggressive and announced he was leaving as I had “betrayed a trust” by ringing his university.  I was relieved  and retuned to ensure that he did leave when and how he said he would. He did, but I will not be rent out my place, as it’s just too stressful – group houses are now a fact of life for most in Australia but the burden always falls on the person who had most invested in the dwelling, either financially or emotionally.

[Tenacious]

A vote taken at a Special General meeting voted by one vote to block the reno which as well as new tiles/ flooring etc. also included demolishing a wall between two bedrooms.to install outfacing wardrobes.

The applicant,  builder, promptly submitted a second application ( still with the three month work duration) but omitting the wall reconstruction. It seems that with benign approval from the strata manager this reno will go  ahead but I’m wondering what the health implications re. Covid, if workmen are coming and going in a small complex with inside stairs.

There is a notice asking for masks to be worn on the notice board but what other precautions should be taken ? We’re guessing work will start immediately the applicants gets the go- ahead. All advice welcomed !

[Author]

Replies