• This topic has 4 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 9 months ago by .
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  • #73083
    Nicky
    Flatchatter

      Hi. I’m my block in WA, it has been identified that the balconies are defective and need to be fixed. The council of owners are proposing a special levy of $18,000 per quarter on top of the standard $1,900 strata fees. This amounts to $6,633 per month in strata and doesn’t account for any personal costs like mortgage and groceries. Can anything be done to push back on this as being an unreasonable burden?
      Thanks

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    • #73090
      scotlandx
      Strataguru

        Noting I am not familiar with WA strata regulation, but as a general proposition the answer to your question is no.

        If the balconies are defective, then the owners have an obligation to fix them, and that is why they are proposing a special levy. The fact that it may be a burden on one or more owners, unreasonable or otherwise, is not relevant. If you know the balconies are defective then you have to fix them. If you don’t then that can have flow-on consequences for things such as insurance.

        However there may be ways the owners can make it less painful – things you may consider are taking out a strata loan, or structuring the special levy to be paid over time (which it looks like what is proposed), depending on when payment has to be made to the contractors carrying out the work. Or you could borrow the money to pay the levy.

        #73092
        Jimmy-T
        Keymaster

          Ask them if they have considered getting a strata loan.  That’s easier for everyone (except those who have that kind of spare cash lying around).

          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.
          #73094
          Nicky
          Flatchatter
          Chat-starter

            Thank you. I forgot to mention this is over the course of two years! I suspected that would be the answer. I’ll ask them again to consider a loan!

            #73095
            Nicky
            Flatchatter
            Chat-starter

              Thank you- yes a loan would be my preference! Even if it costs more in the long term

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