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Hi All,
As the owner of an older 2br unit in a small block of 9, i was wondering at what point the owner becomes responsible for the wiring?
I have recently discovered that electrical cabling from a light switch to the light itself has/is breaking down. Basically the electrical insulation on the wires behind the switch (behind the switch before it enters the outer-sheath) has perished and so the wires are in danger of shorting. (it doesn’t help that the switch is installed into the architrave)
Is this an owner problem or strata? Note that the live part of the circuit comes from the switchboard.
Also, may of the wiring appears to have significant signs of Virdigris.
Any help is appreciated.
– WorryWort
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Irrespective of who owns what, this sounds scary. I’m not an electrician, but worrywort needs the services of one for his/her immediate problem. The solution may include upgrading the apartment’s wiring, with adequate circuits to provide for an array of electrical gear never imagined when the block was built, and a modern board with circuit breakers. Further ‘upstream’, the whole building may need to have its wiring renewed to a similar standard. Let’s hope the sinking fund is in sound shape.
Strictly speaking, as the location of the problem is with the wiring behind the switch and before it enters the wall cavity, it’s within the air space of your Unit and in NSW that could be considered your problem.
However I’ll ignore that grey (or in your case green) area, and advise that unless your Plan has a Special By-Law dealing with the issue (as mine does), then all wiring that’s on or within an internal wall of your Unit (e.g. those separating rooms) is your responsibility, and all wiring within a perimeter (outer) wall or above the ceiling of your Unit is the Owners Corporation’s responsibility.
PS – just noticed I’ve jumped excathedra’s post; I’ll have to type faster!
Thanks for the feedback, but remember that even if you did snip the wires at the wall, repairs would still be your responsibility if that wall was internal; that is one dividing rooms.
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