Renovations

Interim Orders for Unauthorised Works to Common Property

Summary

Bannermans were given instructions for interim orders to stop a lot owner carrying out unauthorised works to common property including works requiring waterproofing. Interim orders were granted and served on the lot owner. The lot owner ceased works and agreed to requisition a motion and by-law regarding the works. The by-law was passed and registered. The lot owner continued the works in accordance with the by-law.

Renovating Strata Units - New Laws, New Opportunities

Owners of investment properties will, from time to time, carry out renovations. In fact, an investment property owner may even have acquired the property with a view to carrying out renovations and making a gain on sale of the property. At the least, an investment property owner will want to maintain the condition of the property to comply with obligations under tenancy laws and to maximise the rental value of the property.

I Don't Like What Is Proposed To Be Built Next Door - What Can I Do?

Objecting to a Development Proposal and how to do it effectively:

The laws in relation to planning consents and development applications have undergone significant change in the last few years. 

Renovations - Do I Need A By-Law?

Many owners may be tempted to “keep it simple” when renovating their apartment and not request approval from the owners corporation, or a by-law. Strata committees may take a similar view, wishing to minimise the number of general meetings and the number of motions at those general meetings. However, this is a bad idea, for both lot owners and owners corporations.

What Do I Own and What is Common Property?

For any lot owner and for an owners corporation, the really important question of who owns what needs to be established as the answer will dictate how a strata scheme is correctly managed and who is responsible for what parts of a strata scheme.

Strata Renovations & Subdivisions - Exempt & Complying Development Laws May Remove the Need for Council Approval

Owners and developers of strata units considering renovations or subdivisions need to consider whether council approval is required. Failure to obtain a required approval can have serious consequences, including penalties, upgrade or demolition orders and prejudice to insuring, leasing, mortgaging or selling the property in the future.

Should I Subdivide or Use a By-Law?

Ownership and use rights

We have recently seen an increasing number of requests from lot owners in strata schemes to obtain a right of ownership or use for common property areas comprised in:

• Attics

• Courtyards

• Balconies

Do You Need Council Approval For Your Renovations?

Renovations to strata units may require council approval. This will depend on the nature of the renovations, as well as the council involved. It will differ from council to council, so it is always a good idea to check.