Unless you have specific by-laws to the contrary, the EC can't demand access without reasonable notice – and eight hours clearly isn't reasonable. Even then, apart from emergencies, it has to be done with the owners approval. Tenanted properties have even more restrictive rules on when landlords can gain access. The problem with being an owner in this regard is that a share of any costs caused by delaying the work will accrue to you. As for tenants, the attitude of “they're ony tenants” prevails it too many apartment blocks these days despite the fact that 60 percent of strata properties are tenanted. Regarding the use of bathrooms, this is a courtesy that you may or may not shoose to extend to workmen – it's absolutely your choice, regardless of whether you are a tenant or an owner. Someone has screwed up and they are getting heavy handed to cover the fact that they forgot to issue proper notices. They should be made accountable at your next EC meeting.