#25640
Jimmy-T
Keymaster

    Yes, they should and that involves deferring their decision to a higher authority if they are not sure.

    I live in an apartment building where one owner removed a room, meaning his lounge room (which he wanted to expand so he could have bigger parties – seriously!) was now next to my bedroom. He got a builder to say that this was all OK and the council, even though their regs say you have to have planning permission to change the configuration of a flat, went along with it because the builder said it was a compliant development.  

    The strata committee went along with it because the council said it was OK.  The noise was so bad I sold the flat.

    My point is that removing a wall isn’t just about supporting the ceiling. It may mean that “active” rooms are suddenly next to “passive” rooms – a lounge is suddenly next to a neighbours  bedroom whereas most bedrooms are next to bedrooms in modern apartment blocks.

    So you are right about strata committees not being experts – that’s why they should make absolutely sure before they permit something that is going to benefit one owner to the detriment of another.

    The opinions offered in these Forum posts and replies are not intended to be taken as legal advice. Readers with serious issues should consult experienced strata lawyers.