#25576
TonyC
Flatchatter

    Well said!

    What is not mentioned in the DIY TV Shows such as The Block is that the contestants are renovating a whole block of apartments – which are then strataed for sale. Therefore they don’t need to comply with all those pesky rules and requirements for approval for renovation that strata owners need to comply with.

    What are those rules and requirements? Up until now, in NSW, all work affecting the fabric of the building, from major work such as a new bathroom to minor work such as putting up a shelf in a bedroom, have all required the same approval, namely a special resolution (a 75% majority) at a general meeting of the owners corporation.

    But from 30 November, this will change in a number of ways depending on whether the work is cosmetic work, a minor renovation or a major work. Specifically –

    – Cosmetic work such as putting up a shelf, hanging pictures, painting and patching, laying carpet, installing built-in wardrobes and replacing blinds and curtains (like for like) will not require any approval. This is a DIY renovators paradise!

    – Minor renovations such as renovating a kitchen, installing a wooden floor, electrical work, installing an air conditioner will require approval, by a simple majority (a 50% majority) resolution at a general meeting of the owners corporation. This work is not DIY territory because the owners corporation can be expected to require that the work be carried out by licensed tradesmen, at specified times, according to approved plans.

    – Major renovations are all renovations other that what is listed as cosmetic work and minor renovations. All work requiring waterproofing and structural work, such as new bathrooms, laundries, plumbing work, replacement of external doors and windows, pergolas and awnings is major work which will require approval by a special resolution (a 75% majority) at a general meeting of the owners corporation. This work is for licensed tradesmen with structural engineer’s certificates and waterproofing certificates.

    For more detailed information, click on my article – How the new Strata Laws make renovating easier for strata owners