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We are an early 1920s apartment block of six. Last year a new owner on the top floor carried out major work including the removal of some substantial structural walls along with some of the ceiling, all without any reports, plans or permission. At this time it came to light that there was sagging of the roof above this apt (the whole roof had been renewed after the big hail storm approximately 17 years ago).
The Executive Committee advised the Strata Manager that we needed to get a Structural Engineer in to inspect and assess the apartment. It was weeks before access was gained. We had made it very clear from the outset to the SM both verbally and in writing (on three occasions) that it was our expectation that she should pay for the report. (The OC paid for a separate report on the roof conducted by the same Engineer a week later).
Six months on and the invoice from the Engineer still had not been paid. We reminded the SM this was for the rogue renovator to settle. At our AGM in September we discovered that he had negotiated with them to pay half of it. He advised that we engaged the Engineer, not them. He then went on to say that it was not his understanding that they should have to pay it! I sent him an email with all the written evidence the day after the AGM to which he has not responded.
Surely we have the right to engage a Structural Engineer at their expense when substantial common property has been damaged and more was potentially in jeopardy?
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