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    Renovations and my strata
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Renovations and my strata

    2019-12-090

    Any sort of renovation can be exciting, expensive and stressful. In a strata unit or apartment, it can be even more challenging to renovate because we might be unclear as to what we can do without permission.

    In this article, let’s discuss some of the common repairs and maintenance you can conduct freely and others you need permission for from your body corporate or strata owner.

    But before reading further, it is important to note that every building is different and there may be specific by-laws in place that prevent even minor renovations.

    We recommend checking with your owner about what exactly you can do, lest you incur legal action.

    Minor cosmetic

    The reason why approval is needed for certain renovations is because it can impact the structure of the building.

    Minor cosmetic changes such as hanging a painting, changing the colour of a wall or even modifying a countertop are all typically fine to do without permission.

    According to the Fair Trading NSW site, other work can be declared as cosmetic if a by-law is passed. So, there may be more that you could do than originally thought.

    Major renovations (Internal)

    This would include things like renovating the kitchen or bathroom with new tiles, sinks, shower and so on.

    These require permission because it could affect structural areas as well as the waterproofing.

    Typically, 50% of the owner’s corporation needs to approve the plan for you to be able to enact it. Even if the owner(s) says it is all fine, it is better to ask anyway.

    Even larger renovations may require 75% approval.

    Communal areas

    For anything that is a communal area or that would affect shared areas, it is important to talk to the owner.

    Ultimately, because it is communal, it means the owner has the final say. But genuine ideas such as access ramps or fixtures may be of benefit and the owner may allow permission.

    Each area is different – and a good strata manager will know the regulations for your situation.

    Apart from getting the owner’s approval, it is important to comply with all council and government regulations as well.

    For owners

    Owners are able to speed up processes by passing by-laws that allow strata committees to approve minor renovations.

    You can also pass by-laws that classify other work as minor renovations, making it easier to approve.

    Having skilled strata managers will help in staying on top of all requests, paperwork and laws surrounding renovations and repairs.

     

    Strata & Co. are experts in all things strata – and we can assist strata owners in keeping residents as happy as possible. We can help with advice, paperwork, financial, legal work and other strata management services you need.

    Give us a call at 1300 033 947 to talk to our local staff about how we can help you with our services.

    What you need to know about Airbnb and strata
    Community, Residential

    What you need to know about Airbnb and strata

    2019-12-040

    Airbnb has quickly changed the rental property industry. It has become a convenient and relatively easy way for people to make extra money by either renting out entire homes or just rooms.

    And people in strata complexes are taking advantage of Airbnb’s influence. For those living in strata schemes, it is essential to understand all matters surrounding this.

    If you are a strata owner, there are ways to promote or squash Airbnb access in your building. Keep reading to find out more.

    The fears surrounding Airbnb in strata

    Airbnb

    1) Safety

    With rental agreements, there is usually an application process, a more standardised contract and a stable relationship between the building owner and the renter.

    Airbnb allows strangers to live in a scheme without the foundation of really knowing much about them. There is less responsibility on the Airbnb guest than there is with a full-time renter, so the likelihood of accidents, vandalism or rule-breaking is higher.

    Also, because multiple people will gain access to the building through Airbnb, it increases the chance of keys being copied, unauthorised access or dangerous activity.

    This could see an increase in theft, destruction and other hindrances like noise.

    If your building gains a reputation for being unable to control safety concerns, it could topple potential growth.

    2) Rules

    With any scheme, there is a certain quality of life that the owner is trying to create through the rules and by-laws of a strata agreement.

    Permanent guests develop a sense of respect and healthy fear of the rules because of the shared living arrangement. However, because Airbnb guests are temporary renters, they bring the uncertainty of rule-keeping. They may either be great houseguests or party animals.

    The control of noise, pets, parties and other social behaviour is harder to manage with Airbnb guests.

    This could create problems between multiple people in the complex. Or worse, it could drive people to seek living arrangements elsewhere.

    3) Damage

    We have all heard of the shock and horror stories of ‘bad renters’. But most of the time, we experience good and honest people living in strata schemes.

    Airbnb, however, opens the door to a wider variety of people. This means the likelihood of damage and accident also increases.

    Property damage becomes a sticky issue, because if something is damaged, is it the owner’s fault, the Airbnb guest or the strata complex?

    It may seem obvious who is at fault, but what if they are unwilling to comply and they are international guests? It can be difficult to follow up and actually resolve the issue.

    Besides physical damage, there is a danger that your building’s standard and reputation could be affected, too. People might associate your building with a ‘party’ or ‘holiday’ inn rather than a permanent residence.

    These concerns should be considered when you’re looking to rent your home out or if you are a strata owner thinking about ways to mitigate the influence/access of Airbnb.

    Solutions against Airbnb

    Although there are some strata owners who are willing to host places on Airbnb, there are others who deem the risks too high.

    However, they may be unsure as to how to limit the Airbnb craze. Here are ways to deal with this issue.

    Strata agreement

    1) By-laws

    Having a by-law that restricts the right to sublet could curb Airbnb hosting for a while, but be warned that this right has been successfully challenged in the courts by a renter before.

    It may depend on what area of Australia you are in; establishing clear lines may slow the process, but these laws can still be challenged.

    2) Establish a clear contract

    If you are worried about the growing impact of Airbnb, then you can always establish definite lines before new renters enter your scheme.

    By being honest and upfront at the start and having in writing the rules and regulations, you could stop the problem before it begins.

    3) Compromise

    Perhaps there are some people in your property who really want to use listing platform. And because they are already a part of your complex and have subletting rights, you may be able to get involved in the rules they make with Airbnb.

    Sometimes controlling the action rather than prohibiting it can work well.

    The truth is, there is so much change about the use of strata subletting. Even governments are getting involved to help owners maintain building rights whilst still allowing certain freedoms.

    If there is a strata renter in your building and you are genuinely concerned about their Airbnb use, you can always ‘tattle’ on them. Especially if they are not declaring their earnings to the Australian Tax Office.

     

    Overall, as a strata owner, it is important to recognise trends and put systems in place to curb their influence if undesired or promote their use if you are in favour.

    At Strata & Co., we are the finest strata management company in Sydney offering the most comprehensive services possible.

    If you need legal advice or counsel regarding Airbnb or other aspects of your strata, then we are your team. Call us at 1300 033 947 to talk to our friendly staff for more information.

    Key roles of a strata manager
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Key roles of a strata manager

    2019-11-140

    Most of what a strata manager does can seem mysterious to outsiders. There are, in fact, many roles that a strata company manages, though some only offer basic services while others are more comprehensive.

    In this article, we will take a look at the key roles of strata managers that can help improve your property.

    Key roles of a strata manager infographic

    1) Administrator

    We all know the value of record-keeping and being extremely organised. This trait is much more important when managing strata complexes.

    From keeping track of all meetings, agendas and payments to preparing and distributing official documents and notices, these are all part of the duties of a strata manager.

    2) Consultant

    You might be after something new or different for your property but want some advice on how to implement it. We often need advice or help, especially with regards to areas we have never looked into before.

    When it comes to legal areas, good strata managers can give you advice in order to protect you from risk or liability. This could save you a lot of time and money.

    When you own a property, it is invaluable to have professional counsel available when small or large issues pop up.

    3) Moderator

    Whenever multiple people are involved in anything, it is nice to have mediators on hand. Disputes can far better be handled when an unbiased manager is assessing.

    Plus, strata managers provide clear and precise communication which can be dispersed or collected. We can assist with regulating by-laws and rules as well. It helps to have a neutral person available.

    4) Coordinator – ongoing maintenance & remedial works

    When things need to get done, strata managers can do it. Regular maintenance, remedial works and major repairs – you name it. A qualified management company will be able to fulfil the demand and obtain several quotes to ensure most competitive price, workmanship and warranties are upheld, Including obtaining and checking contractors’ licenses and insurances are current.

    Most of the time, outside contracting services may be needed in strata buildings, but a strata manager can coordinate those processes seamlessly.

    A trusted strata manager is essential because they can be given tasks and you know you’ll get the best results.

    These are some of the main roles of a strata manager.  They don’t stop there, however. Strata & Co. prides itself in being the only one of its kind in all of Australia. We are a one-stop-shop for strata management throughout the country, and we live by our motto, ‘strata made simple’.

    We not only fulfil all the roles detailed in this blog, but we can cover so much more! For more information about how we can help you, contact our friendly and licensed staff at 1300 033 947.

    Do I need a strata management company
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Do I need a strata management company?

    2019-11-060

    Owning a strata complex has its challenges and rewards. Depending on the type of building you have, you may think it is perfectly fine to just manage everything yourself. Although this option does exist, there is nothing wrong with seeking assistance from professionals.

    In our experience, it is best to have a licensed, trustworthy and local team managing your strata. This avoids issues that may arise from trying to self-manage.

    What do strata managers offer?

    Most generic strata managers in Sydney offer advice, management and services that pertain to the industry. They can formally keep things running. Also, they keep you up to date with all laws and regulations. Some even assist with the financial management of the strata.

    Regardless of the services offered by others, all strata buildings must be well maintained and managed.  If you want to ensure your building is, then you either need to put all the time, effort and energy into managing every detail yourself or seek help from a strata management company.

    Unlike any other company in Australia, we at Strata & Co. pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for all your strata needs. We do it all! So, you can have the peace of mind and continue doing what it is you do best.

    Why strata managers?

    Having a designated manager for your building is highly effective. In the long run, you will save much time and money and avoid potentially disastrous mistakes.

    Good strata managers know the laws and regulations to ensure that you are always keeping the standard. This will help avoid fines or heavy consequences.

    Also, if you have any questions or queries, then you can always ask your manager. You don’t have to worry about DIY methods of managing – you can just trust your strata team.

    How to get a strata manager?

    You may own a building and are looking for a reliable strata management company. Or perhaps you are looking to change providers. Either way, you must first know what you need and want.

    Some strata companies in Sydney only provide the bare basics in services, while others offer various or customisable plans.

    Here at Strata & Co., we provide end-to-end solutions in all areas of strata. We pride ourselves on being the most comprehensive strata management company in Australia.

    You don’t just need a strata company; you deserve the best! With qualified staff local to Sydney, we can help you successfully manage your property.

    Give us a call today at 1300 033 947 and speak to our friendly team.

    Do I have a lazy strata manager?
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Do I have a lazy strata manager?

    2019-11-010

    In almost every area of our lives, we rely on exchanging goods and services with other people. But sometimes, we lack the results we expect from service providers. This can have a huge impact on our businesses, lives and even our trust.

    Here is how you can tell if your strata manager is lazy and what you can do to get better services.

    1) Non-responsive

    If you constantly have to follow up or try to get a hold of your strata manager to then get no response or acknowledgement, this is a bad sign. You need responsive and pro-active managers, especially when things are urgent.

    Some people prefer to only be contacted when there are problems and just have things managed behind the scenes. That is fine if you have arranged that with your strata manager. But generally speaking, it is important to have good communication with your manager.

    If a problem surfaces, you want to have the peace of mind that they will respond quickly. Perhaps it will take time to solve the problem, but at least you know they are working on it. Having someone responsive is essential and is a tell-tale sign of a good manager.

    2) Lateness

    Depending on the services you require, you may need reports, invoices or items mailed/emailed to you from time to time or regularly.

    If reports are consistently late, invoices are always sent at random times and documents take too long to arrive, then this is another big sign of a lazy manager.

    This is an indication of bad organisation skills and the company being overwhelmed which usually impacts other important areas of your service.

    A good strata management company in Sydney stays on top of all the reports and paperwork that you require. You would know when you will receive these items when you have a consistent manager.

    3) Complaints

    Not all complaints fall under the jurisdiction of your strata manager, but if certain areas that they should be managing are not being handled properly, then there’s no doubt you will notice complaints about it.

    This makes you and your property look unprofessional and can cause a bad reputation. A complaint is never desirable, especially if you are paying someone to manage that part of your strata. This is an obvious sign of laziness or incapability.

    What can you do?

    These are just a few signs of a lazy strata manager, but what exactly can you do about it?

    If your strata manager in Sydney is exhibiting any or all of these signs, then the first step is to have a frank conversation. It is important to be vocal and have an official conversation about your concerns and queries.

    This is the test. If things don’t change after you converse with them, then it is probably time to look for another manager.

    What makes a good strata manager infographic

    If you decide that you want to change strata managers, check out our article on how to do that here.

    You don’t want to go from bad to worse, so make sure you are getting the best. Here is an article on what to look for in strata managers.

    Here at Strata & Co., we pride ourselves on excellent service and avoid all the signs of a lazy strata manager. We have experienced and licensed staff local to Sydney.

    What are you waiting for? Contact us today at 1300 033 947 to find out how we can help you and your property.

    Best indoor plants for strata
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Best indoor plants for strata

    2019-10-250

    It is not uncommon for strata owners to look for ways to improve the common areas of their buildings. Sydney strata is an ideal location for a host of indoor plants.

    Not all plants are suitable for indoor use, however, and having the wrong plants inside can end up giving you more work than required.

    Also, if plants die and look ugly, then they become a waste of money and provide an unprofessional image. Let’s look at some of the best indoor plants that you can use in your strata building.

    Chinese EvergreenChinese Evergreen

    Profile: Also known as a painted drop tongue, this plant is great for indoor use as it is resilient. It produces dark green leaves that grow on long stems. This is a slow-growing plant but has simple beauty once mature.

    Caring for: Moderate to light sunlight is enough and it can survive fine with shaded light. If the plant is evenly moist, it will thrive well indoors.

    Benefits: Besides being easy to care for, this plant is also perfect for decorating tables. And if it ever grows too large, the stems can be trimmed easily.

     

     

     

    Weeping FigWeeping Fig

    Profile: From the ficus family, this plant can grow from one to two metres tall. It is a Northern Australian native but works well all over Australia. It has slender branches and small leaves.

    Caring for: It requires bright sun and should remain moist. Also, it should not sit in water as this can rot the leaves. Pruning should be done as this plant can grow extremely tall otherwise, but pruning is easy.

    Benefits: Weeping fig is one of the best air quality purifiers available. It removes toxic chemicals in the air and it also looks great.

     

     

    Pothos

    Pothos

    Profile: This potted plant is a great starter for many people as it is super easy to care for and is beautiful. Owners of this plant should be careful though because ingesting it can be harmful. It should mainly be used in areas that are not accessible to young children who may eat it.

    Caring for: Pothos can live and thrive in low-lit areas, so they are suitable for staircases, bathrooms or office spaces. They can be planted in dry soil or in water and are great for pruning and regrowing.

    Benefits: This plant is hardy and can survive in soil or in a water vase. It grows beautifully in a kind of vine shape which makes it perfect for window sills, shelves or desks.

     

     

    Iron PlantIron Plant

    Profile: The iron plant, also known as the cast-iron or ballroom plant, is extremely durable. It is highly favoured by people who are too busy to own house plants but still want one. It has deep green leaves that provide a wonderful pop of colour to boring areas.

    Caring for: This is one of the easiest plants to care for, making it suitable for strata buildings. They can last in hot or cold weather and are fine in dry soil. It is a slow-growing plant, meaning that it won’t need pruning for a while. And even then, it is simple to maintain.

    Benefits: This plant is perfect for those who have all the other plants they have owned, die. It is super resilient and the large, green leaves look beautiful. This vibrant plant is great for making bold statements, whilst enhancing common areas and being easy to care for.

     

    Fiddle Fig LeafFiddle Fig Leaf

    Profile: This plant is highly fashionable right now for its large leaves and quite pretty build. They can grow very large, making them perfect for high-ceiling but perhaps small rooms. They are best used as a floor plant and can work well in the corner of rooms. They are harder to take care of than other plants but even a small fiddle fig is remarkable.

    Caring for: They require a balance between sunlight and water. The soil should not be too wet and they should not be in direct sunlight all day, hence why the corner of a room may be best. They can be pruned easily and may require it as they can grow over two metres tall.

    Benefits: This plant has air-purifying qualities and it looks amazing. You will be hard-pressed to find another plant of its type that can fill a room and work well indoors. This style of plant is great for open strata common areas.

     

    Peace LilyPeace Lily

    Profile: For those who love flowering plants, but are worried they will die, the peace lily is for you. It is an ideal plant for apartment buildings and strata because it can survive in lowlight settings, even growing well under fluorescent lights. The white flowers produced really pop amongst the bright green leaves.

    Caring for: This plant, when indoors, typically grows to around 40 centimetres. It requires consistent moisture, part sunlight and part shade in order to thrive.

    Benefits: This plant is super easy to care for, produces beautiful white flowers and works well under artificial light. It is no wonder these are one of the most common houseplants.

     

     

    Snake PlantSnake Plant

    Profile: Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, this plant is considered one of the most resilient available. This plant is awesome as being neglected, yet remaining not only alive, but looking great. Scientists have found that this plant is also one of the best at purifying toxins from the air. For strata owners who want an easy to care for and functional plant, the snake plant is the best choice.

    Caring for: The main thing to know about this plant is the leaves can rot if the soil cannot drain. If the plant is in a soil-draining pot, then it will likely survive whatever you throw at it. It can last in low to high sun and cold to hot temperatures.

    Benefits: This plant is versatile, pretty and great at cleaning the air. It is an ideal plant for any strata complex. Also, it can easily be duplicated, meaning you can plant more and more and have a stable supply of greenery in your strata building.

     

     

    These are just some of the best strata plants around. Of course, there may be more, and your specific building may benefit from an alternative type.

    Strata & Co. cares about all types and aspects of strata no matter how big or small. Call us today to discuss how we can custom serve you at 1300 033 947. Achieve and maintain the best strata complex with us because we offer the most comprehensive strata management services in Sydney.

    What to look for in a strata management company
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    What to look for in a strata management company

    2019-10-160

    If you own a strata building, you may already have experience with strata management services. Perhaps you are unhappy with your service provider, or maybe you are looking for your first strata manager. Either way we will explore the main things you should be looking for when selecting a strata management company.

    Comprehensive

    Not all strata service providers are created equal. Some only provide basic services; others are pre-packaged plans. It is best to choose a manager that can do it all.

    It can be time-consuming to have a strata manager that fails to manage every area of your strata. You then must fill in the gaps and compensate for their lack of services. It can also be more expensive to have to deal with multiple points of contact.

    Having a strata manager than can act as your main contact and provide services that cover all your needs is essential.

    No area of your strata should be left uncovered – and Strata & Co., is the only strata management of the kind in Sydney that produces complete services. With us, you are covered.

    Local

    Having managers that know your area is essential for effective strata management. Different areas have different needs, challenges and regulations – and only local strata companies can truly assist you.

    Also, being local means that you are less likely to be left behind or forgotten as distant providers can get caught up with their own areas. Having local expertise that genuinely cares for you is key.

    Fully licensed

    This point may sound obvious, but your strata provider choice should be fully licensed. This will ensure industry knowledge and accountability.

    A mistake in strata paperwork, systems or management can be costly and a real hassle. Having fully licensed managers ensure you get qualified advice, action and protection.

    Strata & Co. not only has 100% licensed staff, but also industry knowledge in all areas of strata – from residential, commercial and corporate. This becomes especially important when legal work needs to be completed.

    Customised

    Just like how not all providers are created equal, no two strata buildings are the same as well. Each complex will face its own needs and challenges. Having a strata company that tailors the service based on your specific needs is crucial.

    Otherwise, you will be left with uncovered areas of your strata which can cost you in the long run. Having bespoke plans means you get the coverage and services you deserve.

     

    These are just some main areas that you should be looking for in a strata company. And Strata & Co. only offers the best for you!

    If you are unhappy with your current provider or perhaps need your first strata manager, then give our friendly, local and comprehensive staff a call at 1300 033 947 to see how we can help you.

    Green strata ideas
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Green strata ideas

    2019-10-100

    The thought of becoming more environmentally friendly has become a global effort. Many areas of business that would previously ignore green options are joining efforts.

    There are many incentives to becoming greener, whether it’s financial subsidiaries, marketing opportunities or peace-of-mind for residents. In this article, we will discuss some areas strata owners can implement eco-friendly choices to not only help them, but the environment, too.

    Solar power

    Perhaps one of the most obvious green installation options available – solar power can be a great way to save energy. Large buildings will likely be unable to be completely solar powered, but even having some of the energy use be supplied by the sun can help.

    Solar power is not only an investment for your building but also for the environment. In fact, some areas in NSW have government incentives for installing solar panels.

    Competent strata managers like Strata & Co. would be able to assist you in knowing who qualifies for subsidies. The sun is a huge source of energy and powering your building with it is a great option.

    Double-glazed windows

    This is a simple option, but it can have a big impact in the long run. By having double-glazed glass in a city like Sydney that experiences quite beautiful weather, buildings can easily regulate their temperature. This cuts down on heating and cooling.

    Studies show that by reducing the consumption of fuel for heating and cooling, CO2 levels are dramatically reduced in suburban areas. It is a small addition to buildings but can really help.

    Lighting

    By making the right choices in lighting, you can drastically change your strata and help the environment. LED lights are energy efficient and are a great alternative. LEDs also save you money, with some businesses saving up to 20% per year.

    Another way to perhaps improve lighting is through sensors. People may forget to turn off light, but if rooms have sensors, then the lights can be automated. This is especially helpful for bathrooms or common areas.

    Water

    Conserving water, especially in Sydney where there are water restrictions, is vital. One way to ensure water usage is maximised is perhaps having automated sinks. Again, people often leave taps running and this is a huge waste of water.

    Another simple method is by having all leaks in the building dealt with. Leaking taps can waste large amounts of water on long periods. By fixing them early, you eliminate the problem.

    Rooftop gardens or plants

    Having a rooftop garden or indoor plants is a highly effective and beautiful method of being greener. It literally adds green to your building.

    Studies have shown that air quality can be improved by 90% by some plant varieties. Rooftop gardens also help foster a community vibe and can help people develop the habit of gardening and appreciating nature.

    Even small choices can have huge impact over time. If you are interested in implementing any of these steps or perhaps want to hear about more ways you can help the environment, give Strata & Co. a call today at 1300 033 947. Our friendly and local staff are available to help you make smarter strata choices. Visit our website for other strata management services.

    Should I have a rooftop garden_
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Should I have a strata rooftop garden?

    2019-10-030

    Having a rooftop garden is highly effective in increasing the overall design, feel and use of your strata complex. However, any decision regarding your strata should be made with care and analysis. Not every choice is feasible or beneficial, which is why having  reliable and expert strata management services is often the best solution.

    Sadly, not every building has the advantage of being able to have a garden on the roof. Some strata complexes have either limited access or perhaps industrial units located on the roof which makes growing one difficult. But there are still things that can be done to improve your strata.

    There are many untapped benefits from having a rooftop garden and in this article, we are going to explore some of the main pros in order to help you make the right decision.

     

    Sense of community

    When living in a highly urbanised area, residents can often feel disconnected even though they may be surrounded by a lot of people. Usually the disconnect between nature and people causes negative results.

    With a rooftop garden, it will give people the opportunity to relax, meet, have a hobby or just enjoy right near their home or office.

    It is more inviting to spark conversation when surrounded by numerous plants and in an open space as opposed to a cramped hallway or lobby. Open spaces and nature provide a catalyst for those with similar planting interests to perhaps bond or develop a mutual friendship.

    Australia often has amazing weather, so giving residents a place to get outdoors and enjoy it whilst still being close to their home is invaluable. BBQs, meet and greets, dates or even community events can all be hosted on a rooftop. And with a garden, it is much more likely to be used.Sense of community

    Environmentally friendly

    In a busy city like Sydney, it can be easy to neglect nature and just focus on industry. A rooftop garden is an easy and fun way at adding nature to concrete jungles.

    These gardens can be extremely beneficial to the welfare of residents and the environment, with plants producing more oxygen and helping remove carbon dioxide.

    Your rooftop garden may consist of herbs, vegetables and or fruits, which can provide incentive for people to help with the caretaking or even encourage the use of the rooftop.

    Having a compost bin can allow people to reuse scraps and encourage recycling. This also helps the strata owners to cut down on waste.

    The environment is something a lot of people are concerned about these days, so having a place where residents can help do their part and feel like they are making a difference is very beneficial.Environmentally friendly

    Beautiful value

    A well designed and maintained rooftop can increase the value of the property significantly. Choosing the right kind of plants will go a long way with making a desirable escape in your strata.

    Having a functional, yet stylish design is a great marketing tool as it is an attractive feature for modern strata buildings. Residents not only love well-kept gardens, but if they have a hand in maintaining and improving it, it allows them to feel accomplished – like they are a part of beautifying this outside space.

    Beautiful value

    All in all, if you can have a functional and beautiful rooftop garden, then we recommend it. They build a sense of community, they are good for the environment and they are stunningly valuable.

    At Strata & Co., we provide comprehensive strata management services including advice and guidance.

    For more information, contact our friendly staff at 1300 033 947. We love and know all things strata and can assist you in building a positive community today.

    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Cracking concerns in my strata

    2019-09-170

    Cracks in your strata, whether hairline or large, often cause people to fear. Most don’t know that cracks in buildings are often natural and perfectly fine in the right conditions. But serious cracking problems can result in major damage, so it makes sense that no matter how big or small the crack is, residents get worried.

    In strata, it is important that potential risks and damages are mitigated as early as possible and that your strata community remains at peace and calm. In this blog, we will discuss how to deal with cracking concerns in your strata.

    Do not panic

    It is important to know that small cracks within buildings in NSW are normal. The land naturally becomes dry and wet depending on seasons and rainfall. Dryer land shrinks whilst wet land expands. This means that throughout the year, building foundations may expand and shrink slightly. However, this is expected and is not cause for immediate concern. In order to stop residents from panicking, ensure they understand this information beforehand.

    Strata owners shouldn’t brush off complaints either. If cracks appear, they should be monitored.

    What to do

    Expert strata management companies will understand and have the resources to deal with serious cracking problems. If cracks appear, then the best immediate thing to do is to take a photo of the crack with a ruler and timestamp. This way you know how wide the crack is and you can see if it is growing significantly larger over a short period of time.

    If large cracks are present already, then strata managers will know who to call and consult about sorting the issue out. Again, it may be nothing to worry about so monitoring is key.

    Strata managers dealing with issues

    Comprehensive strata companies in Sydney will understand exactly how to deal with various issues such as cracking. Strata & Co. can help with executing all things regarding repair and maintenance. Here is a list of some of our repair services:

    • Proactive maintenance, rather than reactive
    • Arrange building inspections and reports
    • Arrange for appropriately qualified contractors to undertake routine repairs and maintenance of the common property and/or specified owners corporation property. Provided that any expenditure incurred by the Strata Manager on such matters, does not exceed expenditure limit unless approval has been given
    • Obtain quotations for repair, maintenance and replacement of common property or specified property vested in the owners corporation
    • Liaise with tradesmen about work to be carried out on the strata scheme
    • Arrange and execute contracts pursuant to the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW)

    As strata owners, you want the best for your property, but you also want convenience and simplicity. If issues arise, having responsive and qualified strata managers behind you is essential.

    Strata & Co. specialises in making strata simple. We are a one-stop-shop for all your strata needs and can help mitigate the risk and deal with cracking issues within strata complexes on all levels – from residential, Mixed Use, Commercial and Community Schemes. For advice or more information on how to switch strata managers, contact our friendly and local team at 1300 033 947.

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