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That’s strange. Balconies are typically part of common property. When was your building constructed and when was the Strata Plan registered?
It would seem sensible to have an independent Engineer Consultancy Company investigate and write a scope of works. Once the scope of works have been written, they will tender the work to 3 or 4 contractors. The Strata Committee can then decide which contractor they will choose. All transparent, all independent, and clear to all owners that a diligent process has been followed.
The engineer consultancy will cost around 8 % of the cost of the works, but they may save you much more by ensuring you have a competitive tender and quality assurance. They will also be the on-site works supervisor to ensure the work meets BCA and AS throughout each phase (demolition/removal of tiles etc, waterproofing, resurfacing…). It takes stress out of refurbishment or repair work.
I’ve seen the headaches and over spends that occur when Strata Committees try to project manage common property works. There are always one or two ‘experts’ on the Strata Committee that think they know best, and want to help save the owners corporation money. But, their knowledge shortcomings get found out by the owners corporation in the form of excessive costs, draining sinking funds dry or requiring special levies.
As I understand it, unlike large strata schemes (greater than 100 lots), the committee on small schemes in NSW have no spending limits and don’t need to get more than one quote, unless there are special restrictions placed on the committee at a General Meeting. Best to ensure a clear process has been executed.