There’s rejection and rejection …
If they don’t respond, you could slow the whole process down by asking if they have planning permission (if the layout is going to change) who the builders are, who the project manager will be, whether or not they have insurance etc etc.
Or you could sit down and work out a compromise that includes a delayed start and a strict set of noisy periods when all the drilling for the day would be done. Say, 10am till 12 noon, every weekday. It’s amazing how creative and productive project managers can be when they are handed a set of restrictions, rather than blank cheques to do waht they want, as and when they please.
Any noise work outside that time would be grounds for a shut down with your electricians authorised to pull the plug, literally, on their power supply.
And that’s what you should do if they just start the work anyway, without permission, hire a Level 2 Electrician to come and pull the main fuse to that unit on the grounds that building safety was being compromised without proper oversight.
But probably just mentioning this potential sanction to the renovator will get their attention, if they start getting all “I know my rights” over this.
But the simple fact is that owners can’t mess around with common property (like ceilings) without a by-law in place.
That magnesite is common property. They shouldn’t go near it without your say so and you can get a stop-work order from NCAT if they do.
But pulling the fuse is easier, quicker and a lot cheaper.
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.