LookUpStrata is Australia’s Top Property Blog Dedicated to Strata Living. The site has been providing reliable strata information to lot owners, strata managers and other strata professionals since 2013.
As well as publishing legislative articles to keep their audience up to date with changes to strata, this family owned business is known for their national Q&A service that provides useful responses to lot owners and members of the strata industry. They have created a national network of leading strata specialists across Australia who assist with 100s of the LookUpStrata audiences’ queries every month.
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Nikki shares her time between three companies, including Tower Body Corporate, a body corporate company in SEQ.
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Liza Jovicic Sales and Content Manager4 Strata Loans: When to Involve a Finance Specialist in Your Project
Jenine Garcia, Lannock Strata Finance
6 Declined insurance due to the number of defects in the building
Tyrone Shandiman, Strata Insurance Solutions
8 Can I install CCTV inside my unit?
Allison Benson, Kerin Benson Lawyers
10 Is additional fire safety equipment required for EV chargers and electric vehicles?
Heath Newell, Chief AFSS Services
12 Do we need an insurance broker?
Tyrone Shandiman, Strata Insurance Solutions
14 Accessing elderly residents’ apartments in an emergency
Jake Sharp, MiMOR
16 Neighbour taking photos of our backyard
Leanne Habib, Premium Strata
18 Windows repairs vs. replacement Anthony Shakar, ASQB
20 Challenging owner refuses to pay special levies
Chris Irons, Strata Solve
22 Who validates the proxy form at the meeting?
Rod Smith, The Strata Collective
24 Insurance replacement valuations
Rawlinsons Cost Management
26 The right to access the strata financials
Michael Ferrier, Eyeon Property Inspections
28 Let us help you control your environment
Chief AFSS Services
30 Are outstanding works still the responsibility of a non-renewed strata manager?
Andrew Terrell, Bright & Duggan
32 A lot owner wants to install a diesel generator on his roof
Peter Berney, Solutions in Engineering
34 As an unofficial onsite building manager, can I be paid quarterly?
Rod Smith, The Strata Collective
36 Committee refuses to remove a dangerous tree
Leanne Habib, Premium Strata
38 Project intervene! A new way to address serious building defects
Strata Community Association (NSW)
40 The NSW LookUpStrata Directory
If an owners corporation wants to finance a project, at what point do they involve the strata loan provider?
Sometimes it happens very quickly but generally, the experience takes at least a few years.
We're often quite involved from the beginning, during the planning phase once the owners corporation has an idea of the costs.
For very large projects like the Tamarama building, I think we were involved for around 10 years. There are a couple of other large projects we’ve been involved in for the same time, if not longer. With these large projects, we need to work with the owner corporation to let them know how the finance works and how it can be structured. We obviously reassess right throughout the project as they get updated costs and things like that.
If your owners corporation isn’t fully aware of the project costs, we can work on estimates. That will give you a broad idea. Sometimes owners corporations come to us right at the last minute when they are ready to sign the contract. They have a meeting in three weeks and need a proposal and the facility agreement to table at the meeting. Sometimes it happens very quickly but generally, the experience takes at least a few years.
Jenine Garcia | Lannock Strata Finance jenine@lannock.com.au
When you finance your strata project with Lannock, you are dealing with the industry experts. Having operated for nearly 20 years, our friendly team have the knowledge and experience to deliver the funds you require.
We finance capital works for owner corporations and body corporates around Australia including repairs, renovations, cladding rectification, defect rectification, strata asset renewal, professional services, litigation and re-development.
Get in touch with us to find out why borrowing should be part of the funding mix in your strata corporation.
We’ve been declined insurance for the second year due to the number of defects in our building. How do we know which defects to repair first?
Our 18 unit property in NSW has been declined insurance due to the number of defects. There is no builder warranty as the builder has gone under.
How do we get guidance on what to repair first? We are fumbling around repairing defects, however, as property owners and committee members, we were not builders and have been declined insurance for the second year. We must return to NCAT and explain why we have no building insurance. How do we know what the insurance companies see as the highest risk defects?
Claims associated with builder’s warranty and, in particular, builders not rectifying genuine defects can place an owners corporation in a very difficult position.
Seek information from an insurance broker to provide advice on what the owners corporation needs to do to become insurable.
In this instance, I recommend you seek information from an insurance broker to provide advice on what the owners corporation needs to do to become insurable.
If the reason insurers are declining is due to defects, I recommend the owners corporation:
• Prioritise rectifying defects that pose the greatest safety risk and risk of damage to the building;
• Have a clear plan in place for the rectification of defects.
The engineer who conducted the defects report should be able to provide a priority order for defects and a timeframe for their completion. Please note, however, that although an engineer may state a defect is
low or medium risk and must be completed within 24-48 months as an example, insurers will likely still require those defects actioned as soon as practical in order to consider coverage.
It may be worthwhile for the owners corporation to consider a strata loan, raise a special levy or a combination of both to expedite the repairs, as the consequences of no insurance are significant for owners.
Tyrone Shandiman | Strata Insurance Solutions tshandiman@iaa.net.au
Can I install CCTV inside my unit so I can keep watch on my vehicle parked out the back?
Can I install CCTV inside my unit to watch over my vehicle parked out the back? The installation would not be on common property and the camera only sees part of the backyard and car park.
We will only turn the CCTV on while we are on holiday. There is no invasion of privacy for other residents.
You can install CCTV cameras, however, you need to be aware of a few restrictions.
The quick answer is that you can install CCTV cameras, however, there are a few restrictions you need to be aware of when doing so.
If you are a lot owner, you can install security devices. You can also conduct cosmetic work without approval. This means that the actual work to install a camera should not need owners corporation approval as there are no structural or waterproofing issues.
The restrictions are:
1. you can’t install anything in your lot that can be seen from outside your lot and is not in keeping with the building and
2. there is a good argument that if you install the camera (screw it into the wall or window frame) you are conducting work that can be seen externally and, therefore, it is not cosmetic work or a minor renovation.
For this reason, you may want to install a camera that is not screwed in but potentially stuck onto the paintwork. Then there is the privacy issue. I discuss these issues and a case that is on point in my vlog: CCTV cameras in strata & community title schemes.
Allison Benson | Kerin Benson Lawyers allison@kerinbensonlawyers.com.auREAD MORE HERE
In NSW, are there fire regulations for additional fire control measures in areas with EV cars and chargers? Does additional fire safety equipment need to be installed to manage a potential lithium battery fire, given there have been reported electric vehicle fires while electric vehicles are garaged and on charge?
If additional fire control measures are required, who is responsible for the cost of installation and ongoing maintenance of these additional fire control measures? Would it be the owners corporation or the lot owner?
FRNSW recommends a smoke alarm or a heat alarm is installed in garages where an EV is regularly parked or charged.
FRNSW recommends a smoke alarm or a heat alarm is installed in garages where an EV is regularly parked or charged.
A licenced electrician is required to carry out the installation.
I would assume your current practitioner responsible for inspecting the existing smoke or heat alarms would add these items to their testing schedule.
Our strata’s vehicle garages are located in a below groundlevel car park. If owners want EV chargers and an electric vehicle, is additional fire safety equipment required? Who pays for this?
I am a member of our strata committee. A lot owner is considering buying an electric vehicle.
Our strata complex has all the vehicle garages located in a below ground-level car park and all garages have individual garage roller shutter doors.
The lower garage common area has a fire control system installed that includes alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. These safety measures activate exhaust fans.
I have not yet read anything confirming that each garage needs to be treated as an individual fire compartment.
It would be worth reviewing your bylaws and raising this in the next owners corporation meeting.
Heath Newell | Chief AFSS Services heath@chiefmechanicalservices.com
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We’re passionate about creating sustainable communities. Leaders in the utility industry, we continuously lobby the government on matters to help improve customer protections. With imminent legislation changes on the way, we’re also well positioned to help Strata Managers and Body Corporates navigate their way through the new obligations and rights. That’s why we’re here to help with the Altogether Academy.
Altogether Academy is a program that will educate, empower, and support all strata managers, while covering education topics such as:
• Energy fundamentals
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• Sustainable technology such as electric vehicle charging capability
• Utility data and metering
• Government reform and utility regulation
The program will give you the opportunity to learn from some of the energy industry’s most experienced voices, learn soft skills and take part in networking opportunities. Take control of your career, embrace Altogether Academy and talk to a Senior Energy Consultant today.
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Do we need an insurance broker? What does an insurance broker do?
Insurance brokers play an important role in the arrangement and facilitation of strata insurance.
Insurance brokers play an important role in the arrangement and facilitation of strata insurance. The role of an insurance broker includes:
1. Advice – We specialise in insurance. That’s all we do! It is accepted that insurance brokers are more qualified to give advice in relation to insurance products and we are licensed to give personal advice specific to your individual needs and circumstances. Strata managers and insurers can only provide general advice and are unable to provide advice specific to your needs or circumstances.
2. Broader access to insurers – Some insurers (currently five to six) deal only with insurance brokers. Using a broker can provide broader access to more insurers.
3. Quotes at renewal – Markets change regularly in insurance. Today’s most competitive insurer may not be the most competitive insurer when your policy next renews. The broker negotiates the
best terms in the market from a broad range of insurers. At renewal, brokers are responsible for conducting market checks on behalf of our clients to ensure you are getting the most competitive offer.
4. We represent you – In the majority of cases, the role of an insurance broker is to represent the interests of the client and not the insurer. Insurance brokers guide you through a claim and advise you on how to get the maximum settlement for your claim.
5. Dispute Management – Insurance brokers should facilitate the dispute resolution process. A good insurance broker will help you make a submission to the insurer or the Australian Financial Complaints Authority.
Tyrone Shandiman | Strata Insurance Solutions tshandiman@iaa.net.au
Is there a system that solves the problem of access to elderly residents’ apartments in an emergency?
Emergency services use a lockbox system for a few of the older residents in our large inner city building. The use of this lockbox has always been a concern of mine. Is there a system that solves the problem of access to elderly residents’ apartments in an emergency? If so, how?
This can be arranged with a digital key safe.
There are a couple of ways you can do this.
The strata manager can grant access to the emergency service, ambulance, etc. When the emergency services get to the building, they’ll be granted access, or they’ll have to call the head office to be let into the building.
Another way to organise this is with a digital key safe. If five apartments require emergency access and don’t have digital apartment doors, the building can install a digital key safe for those apartments. The key safe would only be for the use of emergency services for access into those lots.
Emergency services would get to the building, access the digital key safe and gain access to the elderly residents’ apartments.
A third option would be to place a digital door lock on the apartments. Emergency services can be authorised access to those apartment doors.
Jake Sharp | MiMOR jake@mimor.com.au
We have a challenging relationship with the neighbouring lot within our strata complex. The neighbour has made complaints about our backyard and photographed our yard over the fence. Is this a breach of privacy?
However, the photography may constitute a nuisance under section 153 of the Strata Schemes Management Act, 2015 (NSW) as reproduced below:
153 Owners, occupiers and other persons not to create nuisance
1. An owner, mortgagee or covenant chargee in possession, tenant or occupier of a lot in a strata scheme must not—
The photography may constitute a nuisance.
The right to privacy is not entirely clear cut and the Privacy Act, 1988 (Cth) does not expressly deal with photography. Also, your backyard is outside, readily visible to your neighbour and you weren’t engaged in any particular private activity, in which case, there may not be a breach of privacy.
a. use or enjoy the lot, or permit the lot to be used or enjoyed, in a manner or for a purpose that causes a nuisance or hazard to the occupier of any other lot (whether that person is an owner or not), or
You should seek legal advice on the matter as the photography may be trespass or harassment too.
Leanne Habib | Premium Strata info@premiumstrata.com.auREAD MORE HERE
When your windows are old and worn, or needing an overhaul, you may be considering whether your windows can be repaired or whether they need to be replaced. The question is, how do you know which option is best for your windows?
As one of Sydney’s leading window repairs and replacement specialists, this is a very common enquiry we get from our strata clients, particularly when there is a significant cost vs potential saving to be considered
Amongst leading Australian window manufacturers, it is commonly estimated that windows have an average life expectancy of 25 years. Of course, this number can be much higher but will ultimately come down to a few key factors, being, the quality of window material and the original installation method, environmental exposure, and, repairs being carried out promptly when required
In this article we will highlight the most common issues that can usually be resolved with a repair, and also identify when a replacement may be the more suitable option.
When should a window be repaired?
Whilst signs of extensive wear, operational issues, or poor insulating qualities may lead you to believe that a replacement is necessary, these are all problems that can actually be rectified with general maintenance and a few repairs
Below are some of the most common repairable Issues;
Seized windows. This is often caused by rusted or worn internal parts In many cases the operational hardware can be replaced, therefore returning your windows to a functional state
Draught seals that have disintegrated. If your windows have become draughty and inefficient, consider replacing the weather seals as this will increase your energy efficiency as well as enhancing your comfort.
Irreparable timber sash. In most cases a full window replacement can be avoided by manufacturing and replacing just the one problematic sash This is far more costeffective than having the entire window replaced
Minor timber rot A rotting timber window doesn’t automatically mean a full replacement In a lot of cases, if caught early enough, timber rot can be effectively treated and stop any further decay
When a window reaches the end of its serviceable life, the most economical solution is a full window replacement It is recommended that window replacements only be considered once all viable repair options have been exhausted
Windows experiencing the below signs usually don’t have a practical repair option available and will require a replacement
Structural failure at joints of frame. This can be caused by old age, or extensive timber rot in the frame members
Warped window frames. Windows that have been exposed to building movement can result in the frames becoming warped and therefore causing excessive water leaks and draught entry Once the structural integrity of the frame is lost, the window must be replaced
Windows are no longer operating as intended and the required operational hardware has been discontinued This most commonly occurs with aluminium windows
When the owners require enhanced thermal and sound insulating qualities. Window manufacturing technology has come a long way in the last 25 years, so replacing your windows may be the best option if a more effective sound proofing or thermal insulation solution is required.
For aluminium or timber window repairs, replacement or maintenance advice, contact ASQB today
Ensure window repairs are carried out promptly when required. Being diligent with repairs will extend the lifespan of your windows by limiting ongoing exposure to detrimental factors
Regular maintenance programs should be undertaken to preserve the serviceable life of your windows.
Not all old and dilapidated windows need to be replaced. Have your windows assessed by a professional who can investigate and exhaust all repair options before considering the costly undertaking of a full window replacement
Implement a 7-year painting schedule for timber windows. An unsealed timber window exposed to environmental elements will quickly rot, resulting in the need for a replacement
Owners must understand that the cost of avoiding or overlooking repairs and maintenance can lead to accelerated window dilapidation to a point of disrepair.
As with any big or costly decision, it is important to be informed. Windows are an integral part of every building, so knowing your repair options, along with scheduling regular maintenance programs will ensure the enduring life span of your assets.
Article by Anthony Shakar ASQB - Managing Director
For 30 years, we’ve had various problems and difficulties with a non-resident owner. They pay their strata quarterly levies and have contributed to some upgrades but refuse to contribute to special levies for items they disagree with.
We’ve sent them levy reminders plus a final reminder which they ignore. We’re happy this owner is non-financial and cannot be more involved during meetings, but we’re struggling financially. Without this owner’s share of the special levies, the other three owners have the financial burden.
One non-resident owner will not contribute to special levies. Without this payment, the other three owners bear the financial burden.
It’s not about asking very nicely to pay. They have to pay. If they don’t pay, you need to refer this to a lawyer.
I don’t think this is about a challenging person or situation. This is a situation where someone’s not paying. In strata, the bottom line is you need money to survive. The strata scheme needs money. There are no ifs, buts, or maybes. When it comes to strata levies, if you are part of an Australian scheme, you pay. That’s it, no discussions, you pay.
If you don’t pay, you can expect debt collection to be enforced against you. Why? Because without your contributions, the body corporate cannot pay its bills and if it cannot pay its bills, the scheme falls into disrepair or even worse, the biulding is not insured. If it’s not insured, your liability will be extraordinary.
It’s not about asking very nicely to pay. They have to pay. If they don’t pay, you need to refer this to a lawyer.
Do lot owners have a right or the means to verify the legitimacy of proxy forms at a meeting?
It’s the role of the chairperson to validate proxies.
It’s the role of the chairperson to validate proxies. In extreme cases with difficult and challenging meetings in large schemes you may need to involve a lawyer to make that decision.
We had one meeting in a difficult building where a lawyer validated all the proxies and said “yes” or “no”. The lawyer was at the meeting as well. Usually the strata manager or the chairperson determines the validity of the proxies.
Rod Smith | The Strata Collective rsmith@thestratacollective.com.au
READ MORE HERE
The Strata Collective was formed with a simple goal –to provide a professional strata management service to clients who want a close, personal relationship with their Strata Manager.
We are a next generation Strata Management business that you can count on.
Find out more about our award-winning services at thestratacollective.com.au
An Insurance Replacement Valuation must be carried out to ascertain a precise and comprehensive value for an insurance policy. This is to protect the building and its owners from the potential losses that could result from a disaster such as a fire, flood, cyclone or other natural disaster It is not uncommon for the replacement value on an insurance policy to be vastly underestimated, placing the building's owners in a vulnerable financial position. The value of cover needs to cover the costs for rebuilding a like for like building in terms of size and quality in accordance with present day building codes.
Preparing an Insurance Replacement Valuation requires expertise in construction costs, market conditions and the relevant local legislation and insurance requirements. Professional Quantity Surveyors are best suited to provide this skillset The core skills of a Quantity Surveyor includes measurement of building areas, estimating construction costs of buildings, assessing current market conditions and a technical understanding of construction techniques
An Insurance Replacement Valuation should include the following costs:
Capital Construction Costs of Building, External Works and Services
Construction Contingency
Demolition Costs
Professional Fees
Development Application Fees
Escalation during the Design and Documentation Period
Escalation During the Lapse Period
The following items are not usually covered in an Insurance Replacement Valuation:
Loose furniture, fittings and equipment (contents)
Tenancy fit out costs
Loss of revenue/profit
Temporary accommodation costs during the re-building phase
Legal fees
Financing costs
Replacement values should be reviewed annually. Additionally, if there have been any asset improvements, refurbishments or extensions then the value will need to be updated as soon as possible to ensure the full value is covered.
Rawlinsons Cost Management have been in operation for 70 years. Their team are highly experienced Quantity Surveyors who provide detailed and accurate Insurance Replacement Valuation Reports in accordance with the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) best practice and are compliant with local legislative and insurance requirements.
Rawlinsons research, compile and edit annual publications on Australian construction cost data which covers all Australian states and territories Rawlinson Australian Construction Handbook is the most extensive library of cost data in Australian. This cost data is used by the team when compiling Insurance Replacement Valuations and ensures that the information used is up to date and in line with current market conditions
Engaging with Rawlinsons Cost Management to undertake your next Insurance Replacement Valuation will ensure you reduce your risk and can have confidence that the cost of your most valuable asset is adequately insured
Are
Our strata committee recently approved the 6 month financials. As a lot owner, I’ve been refused access to the report. What rights do I have and how can I access the report?
Our strata committee recently met and approved the 6 month financials. As a lot owner, when I noticed this in the minutes of the meeting, I asked for a copy of the 6 monthly report to review. The committee refused to give me the report saying I must wait for the annual meeting to get the annual financials. Our Strata Management company does not have a portal. What rights do I have to see the 6 month financial report and how can I access it?
As an owner in a NSW strata plan, you have the right to inspect the records of the owners corporation at any time. Take a look at this link for more information about record keeping and access to records by owners Essentially, to obtain access to the records, you need to submit a request to the strata committee or the strata manager. There is a fee payable of $34.10 to access the records. If you arrange for someone to inspect the records on your behalf, there will be additional fees.
Michael Ferrier | Eyeon Property Inspections michael.ferrier@eyeon.com.au
If we choose not to renew our contract with the strata manager, are they still obligated to finish any outstanding projects or tasks before their contract ends?
We are about to vote on renewing our current strata management company. If we vote ‘no’, are we required to find another strata manager?
There are motions from the previous meeting that won’t be finished before this vote. If not renewed, is the current strata management team obligated to complete these repairs?
• The renewal of the current management agreement would generally mean the agreement is about to expire – this would need to be reviewed.
• If the agreement finalises because of the meeting not voting for the renewal, the scheme will not have a manager unless another one is appointed by resolution.
• There is no requirement for a scheme to have a strata manager, however, management of the scheme would fall to the owners corporation and the strata committee in the event that it does not have one.
• If motions were passed by the owners corporation, it is incumbent on the owners corporation to see these decisions through themselves or with the help of the agent.
• If the agent has no agreement, they have no powers.
Andrew Terrell | Bright & Duggan Andrew.Terrell@bright-duggan.com.auof a non-renewed strata manager?
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A lot owner wants to install a diesel generator on his roof
A lot owner has requested permission to install a diesel generator on his roof to safeguard against future black/ brown-outs. What do we need to consider?
I am a Committee Member in a Strata Plan comprising 134 residential apartments. The complex is 8 storeys in height.
A lot owner wishes to install a personal diesel generator on the roof above his apartment to ensure his apartment enjoys continual power in the case of future black/ brown-outs.
Apart from common property issues, are there any safety issues that need to be addressed prior to consideration for approval?
Variables need to be clarified and worked through before the strata committee agrees to this request.
If the Committee approves the installation of the generator, that area of the roof will become the lot owner’s “exclusive use” area.
From then on, the responsibility of maintenance, safety and safe access to the generator remains that lot’s responsibility in perpetuity.
Safe storage of fuel and the electrical connections (for switching the generator over after starting) also need to be worked out.
As you can see, variables need to be clarified and worked through before the strata committee agrees to this request. You should also run this concept past your strata scheme’s electrical contractor.
Peter Berney | Solutions in Engineering peter@solutionsinengineering.com
I am a long term secretary for our building. I carry out a lot of volunteer work around the building. At the AGM, a motion passed to pay me to be an unofficial onsite building manager. Can I be paid quarterly for this role instead of annually?
Payment of officers of owners corporation
The key points are:
• Must be decided by the owners at an AGM by ordinary resolution (simple majority)
• For the period since the last AGM (ie 20212022 year)
I see no reason why you couldn’t be paid quarterly across 2022-2023.
I see no reason why you couldn’t be paid quarterly.
The relevant section is 46:
STRATA SCHEMES MANAGEMENT ACT 2015 – SECT 46
Rod Smith | The Strata Collective rsmith@thestratacollective.com.au
READ MORE HERE
As an unofficial onsite building manager, can I be paid quarterly?
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Switching to a renewable electricity plan is the second most impactful thing you can do you reduce your carbon footprint.
Both renters and owners can make the switch. And, even common areas of apartment buildings can switch to renewable energy.
Two Sydney locals share how easy it is to switch to a GreenPower electricity plan.
Due to lack of funds, the committee refuses to remove a dangerous tree. They will not raise a special levy. What do we do?
I have a huge gum tree leaning across the boundary of 3 properties. An arborist’s report states the tree is in imminent danger of falling and must be removed as soon as possible. The local shire council have inspected the tree and agreed.
If this tree falls, the stump and roots will severely damage my back deck, the fencing and neighbouring properties.
The strata committee met and decided not enough funds were available. If a special levy was raised, owners are unable to pay. As far as the committee is concerned, the tree’s removal is my issue.
The strata management company have everything in place to remove the tree. Quotes have been arranged, the tree removal company is waiting and council approval has been arranged. The committee still refuses to raise a special levy.
Can a special levy be enforced by the strata manager even with the committee voting no?
You can apply for free mediation through NSW Fair Trading.
It is unclear how it has been determined that the dangerous tree is 100% the owners corporation’s responsibility. On the assumption this is correct, the strata manager, pursuant to its delegated powers as secretary, could include a motion to raise the required special levy for all owners to vote on at a general meeting of the owners corporation –however, the strata manager may be reluctant to do so if the strata committee does not support this stance.
Alternatively, you can apply for free mediation through NSW Fair Trading. If no agreement is reached or if the owners corporation refuses to attend, you may then apply to NCAT to have the matter considered there, and, if successful, the owners corporation could be ordered to remove the tree.
Leanne Habib | Premium Strata info@premiumstrata.com.au
for the highest industry standards and professionalism.
Strata Community Association (SCA NSW) is the peak professional industry body and consumer advocate for Strata and Community Title Management in New South Wales. Membership includes strata managers, support sta , and strata service providers to the industry. SCA (NSW) has in excess of 3,000 members who help oversee, advise or manage over 750,000 lots in NSW. SCA (NSW) champions consumer rights and
Project Intervene was launched on 28 September 2022 and went live in November 2022. It is an initiative led by the NSW Government to assist owners corporations (OCs) in addressing serious defects in occupied residential apartment buildings that are less than six years old.
The program aims to report and find resolutions for OCs to remediate serious defects without going through the expensive and time-consuming litigation process. Serious defects broadly refer to defects where building work fails to comply with the performance requirements of the Building Code of Australia, Australian Standards, or approved plans including defective design or faulty workmanship.
The eligibility criteria for Project Intervene include the following:
• Occupation certificate within the last six years.
• Developer or builder is still solvent.
• The residential building is four storeys or more.
• Serious common property defects exist in one of the five building elements: fire safety, waterproofing, structure, building enclosure, and/or building services.
The powers of enforcement under the Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act 2020 will be used to call in documents, conduct inspections and issue building work rectification orders.
The NSW Government and SCA (NSW) have worked together to undertake research highlighting the importance of Project Intervene in addressing serious building defects in NSW strata communities. According to the research, the key findings were:
• 39 per cent of NSW apartment buildings have one serious defect in their common property.
• Only 15 per cent of these buildings report serious defects to NSW Fair Trading.
• Instead, many strata managers and OCs pursue litigation as the primary pathway to remediation.
• Only four per cent reported that the defects were satisfactorily resolved, at an average cost of $332,000 per building.
Overall, Project Intervene is an important initiative designed to improve the lives of OCs and the 35% of NSW residents living in a stratatitled property.
LookUpStrata
Australia’s Strata Title Information Site
W: https://www.lookupstrata.com.au/
E: administration@lookupstrata.com.au
Strata Community Association
P: 02 9492 8200
W: https://www.strata.community/
E: admin@strata.community
Owners Corporation Network
The Independent Voice of Strata Owners
W: https://ocn.org.au/
E: enquiries@ocn.org.au
Your Strata Property
Demystifying the legal complexities of apartment living
W: https://www.yourstrataproperty.com.au/
E: amanda@yourstrataproperty.com.au
LUNA
Building and Facilities Manager
P: 1800 00 LUNA (5862)
W: https://www.luna.management/
E: info@luna.management
First Facility Management Pty Ltd
Putting You First
P: 0402 083 404
W: https://firstfm.net.au/
E: admin@firstfm.net.au
RFM Facility Management Pty Ltd
Strata and Specialist Cleaners
P: 1300 402 524
W: https://www.rfmfacilitymanagement.com.au/
E: nathan@rfmfacilitymanagement.com.au
Elite Building Managers Australia
Education for Building Managers
P: 0420 520 976
W: https://www.elitebma.com/
E: matt@elitebma.com
Mimor
Connecting People – Creating Communities
P: 1300 064 667
W: https://www.mimor.com.au/
E: info@mimor.com.au
Stratabox
Building Confidence
P: 1300 651 506
W: https://stratabox.com.au/
E: contact@stratabox.com.au
Urbanise
Automate your workload to increase efficiency.
P: 1300 832 852
W: https://www.urbanise.com/
E: marketing@urbanise.com
Resvu
Customer Service Software for Strata
P: 08 7477 8991
W: https://resvu.io/
E: enquiries@resvu.com.au
StrataMax
Streamlining strata
P: 1800 656 368
W: https://www.stratamax.com/
E: info@stratamax.com
MYBOS
Building Management - Residential & FM Schemes
P: 1300 912 386
W: https://www.mybos.com.au/
E: sam@mybos.com.au
StrataVault
Connecting people, processes, and applications
P: 1300 082 858
W: https://globalvaults.com.au/
E: team@thestratavault.com
Asset Strata Valuers
Leaders in Strata Property Valuations
P: 1800 679 787
W: https://assetstratavaluers.com.au/
E: workorders@assetstratavaluers.com.au
Sedgwick
Building Consultancy Division & Repair Solutions
W: https://www.sedgwick.com/solutions/global/au
E: sales@au.sedgwick.com
QIA Group
Comapliance Made Easy
P: 1300 309 201
W: https://www.qiagroup.com.au/
E: info@qiagroup.com.au
BIV Reports
Specialist in Strata Compliance Reports
P: 1300 107 280
W: https://www.biv.com.au/
E: biv@biv.com.au
GQS
Quantity Surveyors & Building Consultants
P: 1300 290 235
W: https://gqs.com.au/
E: info@gqs.com.au
Seymour Consultants
Body Corporate Report Specialists
W: https://www.seymourconsultants.com.au/
E: info@seymourconsultants.com.au
Roscon
Property services & facilities management
P: 1800 767 266
W: https://www.roscon.com.au/
E: info@roscon.com
Budget Vals
Built For Strata
P: 1300 148 150
W: https://www.budgetvals.com.au/
E: reports@budgetvals.com.au
Leary & Partners
Quantity surveying services since 1977
P: 1800 808 991
W: https://www.leary.com.au/
E: enquiries@leary.com.au
Mabi Services
Asbestos, Safety & Building Consultants
P: 1300 762 295
W: https://www.mabi.com.au/
E: info@mabi.com.au
Forte Asset Services
FIRE | ELECTRICAL | HVAC
P: 1300 920 752
W: https://www.forteassetservices.com.au/
E: info@forteas.com.au
Quality Building Management
keeping your buildings legally compliant and safe
P: 1300 880 466
W: https://qbm.com.au/
E: inspections@qbm.com.au
HFM Asset Management Pty Ltd
Leaders in Building Efficiency
P: 0407 734 260
W: https://www.hfmassets.com.au/
E: david.chokolich@hfmassets.com.au
CORE Consulting Engineers
Delivering 360° engineering solutions for strata
P: 02 8961 3250
W: https://coreconsultingengineers.com.au/
E: admin@core.engineering
Auric Projects
Managing clients
P: 02 9918 2200
W: https://auricprojects.com.au/
E: info@auricprojects.com.au
Independent Inspections
Sinking Fund Forecast, Insurance Valuations, OHS
P: 1300 857 149
W: http://www.iigi.com.au/
E: admin@iigi.com.au
Solutions in Engineering
Quality Reports On Time, Every Time!
P: 1300 136 036
W: https://www.solutionsinengineering.com/
E: enquiry@solutionsinengineering.com
Landlay Consulting Group
A Strata Remedial Consultancy
P: 02 8095 8556
W: https://www.landlay.com.au/
E: admin@landlay.com.au
EYEON Property Inspections
Buy and Sell with More Confidence
P: 1300 798 274
W: https://www.eyeon.com.au/
E: info@eyeon.com.au
Rawlinsons
Calculated Confidence
P: 08 9424 5800
W: https://www.rawlinsonswa.com.au/
E: info@rawlinsonswa.com.au
Covid19 Plans
Covid19 Safety Plans for Strata
P: 1300 828 344
W: https://covid19plans.com.au/
E: plans@covidplans.com.au
Strataregister.com Pty Ltd
Find the Strata / CT Manager for your property
P: 0411 483 249
W: https://www.strataregister.com/
E: hello@strataregister.com
Kerin Benson Lawyers Pty Ltd
Specialised Legal Advice for Strata
P: 02 8706 7060
W: https://kerinbensonlawyers.com.au/
E: enquiries@kerinbensonlawyers.com.au
Madison Marcus Law Firm
Be Empowered
P: 131 529
W: https://www.madisonmarcus.com.au/
E: strata@madisonmarcus.com.au
Holman Webb Lawyers
Body Corporate Disputes & Litigation Specialists
P: 07 3235 0100
W: https://www.holmanwebb.com.au/
E: shane.roberts@holmanwebb.com.au
RC & CO Lawyers
Effective, resource, clear.
P: 1300 072 626
W: https://www.rccolawyers.com/
E: assistant@rccolawyers.com
Bugden Allen Graham Lawyers
Australia’s leading strata law experts
P: 02 9199 1055
W: https://bagl.com.au/
E: info@bagl.com.au
JS Mueller & Co Lawyers
Specialist ‘Plain English’ NSW Strata Lawyers
W: https://www.muellers.com.au/
E: enquiries@muellers.com.au
Khoury Lawyers Pty Ltd
Client focused, Results Driven
P: 0415 459 486
W: https://khourylawyers.com.au/
E: pierrette@khourylawyers.com.au
Williamson Lawyers
A construction and strata lawyer ready to listen
W: https://www.williamsonlawyers.com.au/
E: shane@williamsonlawyers.com.au
Douglas Cheveralls Lawyers
The Go-To Strata Lawyers
P: 08 9380 9288
W: https://www.dclawyers.com.au/
E: office@dclawyers.com.au
Bannermans Lawyers
High Quality Specialist Legal Services
P: 02 9929 0226
W: https://www.bannermans.com.au/
E: enquiries@bannermans.com.au
Grace Lawyers
Know. Act. Resolve.
W: https://gracelawyers.com.au/
E: enquiries@gracelawyers.com.au
Speirs Ryan
P: 02 9248 3400
W: https://www.speirsryan.com.au/
E: ssaw@speirsryan.com.au
Watson & Watson Lawyers
“when experience matters”…..
P: 02 9221 6011
W: https://www.watsonandwatson.com.au/
E: richard@watsonandwatson.com.au
Premium Strata
Diamond-Class strata management agency
P: 02 9281 6440
W: https://www.premiumstrata.com.au/
E: info@premiumstrata.com.au
The Strata Collective
A next generation strata manager. People matter.
P: 02 9879 3547
W: https://www.thestratacollective.com.au/
E: rsmith@thestratacollective.com.au
Bridge Strata P/L
The bridge between you and your corporation
P: 02 6109 7700
W: https://bridgestrata.com.au/wp/
E: jan@bridgestrata.com.au
Bright & Duggan
Strata Professionals
P: 02 9902 7100
W: https://bright-duggan.com.au/
E: customercare@bright-duggan.com.au
Civium Communities
When you build trust, you build a community
P: 1300 724 256
W: https://civium.com.au/
E: clientservices@civium.com.au
Vital Strata
Strata Made Simple
P: 02 9008 1112
W: https://www.vitalstrata.com.au/
E: hello@vitalstrata.com.au
Sky Living Strata
Providing a superior customer experience
P: 02 9299 1100
W: https://www.skylivingstrata.com.au/
E: enquiries@skylivingstrata.com.au
Townhouse Strata PTY Ltd
Strata Management with a Difference
P: 02 4971 0363
W: https://www.townhousestrata.com.au/
E: alan@townhousestrata.com.au
Strata Central
Boutique Strata Management Services
W: https://stratacentral.com.au/
E: enquiries@stratacentral.com.au
Acumen Strata
Tailored Strata Management Solutions
P: 02 7253 5820
W: https://www.acumenstrata.com.au/
E: info@acumenstrata.com.au
Quantum United Management
Creating vibrant and connected communities
P: 61 383 608 800
W: https://www.quantumunited.com.au/
E: info@quantumunited.com.au
Strata Insurance Solutions
Protecting owner assets is who we are
P: 1300 554 165
W: https://www.stratainsurancesolutions.com.au/
E: info@stratainsurancesolutions.com.au
Whitbread Insurance Brokers
Empower Your Vision
P: 1300 424 627
W: https://www.whitbread.com.au/
E: info@whitbread.com.au
CHU Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd
Specialist Strata Insurance Underwriting Agency
W: https://www.chu.com.au/
E: info@chu.com.au
Strata Community Insurance
Protection for your strata property. And you.
P: 1300 724 678
W: https://www.stratacommunityinsure.com.au
E: myenquiry@scinsure.com.au
Flex Insurance
Your Cover Your Choice
P: 1300 201 021
W: https://www.flexinsurance.com.au/
E: info@flexinsurance.com.au
Driscoll Strata Consulting
Knowledge | Experience | Service
P: 0402 342 034
W: https://driscollstrataconsulting.com.au/
E: enquiries@driscollstrataconsulting.com.au
MJ Engineering Projects
Remedial Consultant Engineers
P: 1300 571 991
W: https://mjengineeringprojects.com.au/
E: info@mjengineeringprojects.com.au
Klaar
The Strata Building Specialists
P: 02 8003 4547
W: https://klaar.com.au/
E: build@klaar.com.au
Altogether Group
Power.Water.Data
P: 1300 803 803
W: https://altogethergroup.com.au/home-business/
E: eaustin@altogethergroup.com.au
ENM Solutions
Providing Solutions for Embedded Networks
P: 1300 000 366
W: https://www.enmsolutions.com.au/
E: info@ENMSolutions.com.au
Energy On Pty Ltd
P: 1300 323 263
W: https://www.energyon.com.au/
E: EnergyServices@EnergyOn.com.au
McIntosh Electrical Pty Ltd
Powered by Trust
P: 1300 627 727
W: https://www.mcintoshelectrical.com.au/
E: jenny@mcintoshelectrical.com.au
EMERLITE ELECTRICAL SERVICES
We Answer The Phone - No Job Too Big Or Small
P: 07 5591 9191
W: https://www.emerlite.com.au/
E: office@emerlite.com.au
Strata Guardian
Fight low returns and rising levies with us.
P: 1300 482 736
W: https://www.strataguardian.com/
E: contact@strataguardian.com
Linkfire Pty Ltd
Your Essential Safety Partner
P: 1300 669 439
W: http://www.linkfire.com.au/
E: sales@linkfire.com.au
Chief AFSS Services
YOUR AFSS COMPLIANCE IS OUR PRIORITY
P: 0405 932 458
W: https://afssfirechief.com.au/
E: melanie@chiefmechanicalservices.com
2020 Fire Protection
Experts in Fire Protection for Strata
P: 1300 340 210
W: https://www.2020fireprotection.com.au/
E: service@2020fire.com.au
Fire Safety Constructions
Compliant Specialist since 1999
P: 02 9945 3499
W: http://www.firesafetyconstruction.com.au/
E: info@firesafetyconstructions.com.au
Betta Fire Protection
Compliance you can trust
P: 02 8669 9108
W: https://bettafireprotection.com.au/
E: info@bettafireprotection.com.au
Higgins Coatings Pty Ltd
Specialist painters in the strata industry
W: https://www.higgins.com.au/
E: info@higgins.com.au
Dulux Property Services
Total Building Maintenance & Remedial Solutions
P: 0411 152 430
W: https://www.duluxconstructionsolutions.com.au/
E: propertyservice@dulux.com.au
3 Colours Painting Services
3 Colours Painting Services
P: 1300 883 635
W: https://3colours.com.au/
E: 3colours@3colours.com.au
Terra Australis Painting Services
Terra Australis Painting Services
P: 0497 545 289
W: https://www.terraaustralispainting.com.au/
E: info@terraaustralispainting.com.au
Sydney Central Pumps
Fixing Pump Problems for 20+ years
P: 1300 558 059
W: https://www.scpumps.com.au/
E: service@scpumps.com.au
Stormwater Sydney
Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of drainage assets
P: 1300 741 003
W: https://stormwatersydney.com/
E: admin@stormwatersydney.com
HYDRAULICA Pty Ltd
Specialise in Drain & Pipe Cleaning
W: https://www.hydraulica.com.au/
E: darren@hydraulica.com.au
Mr Washer, Plumber To The Rescue
Over 30 years serving Sydney Strata buildings
P: 02 8583 2360
W: plumbertotherescue.com.au/strata-commercial.html
E: jobs@mrwasher.com.au
Superseal Protective Coatings (SPC)
Waterproofing & Epoxy Specialists
P: 02 9774 1004
W: https://www.spcau.com/
E: info@spcau.com
Danrae Group
Remedial Waterproofing & Building Specialists
P: 1800 326 723
W: https://www.danraegroup.com.au/
E: enquiries@danrae.com.au
Network Pacific Strata Franchise
Join our successful team
P: 03 9999 5488
W: www.networkpacificstratafranchise.com.au/
E: networkpacific@franchisedevelopments.com.au
Windowline Pty Ltd
Replacement window and door specialists
P: 02 8304 6400
W: https://windowline.com.au/
E: info@windowline.com.au
ASQB Pty Ltd
Window & Door Repairs + Window Safety Compliance
P: 02 9785 7893
W: https://www.asqb.com.au/
E: service@asqb.com.au
The Window Guy
Don’t choose any guy, choose The Window Guy!
W: https://www.thewindowguy.com.au/
E: info@thewindowguy.com.au
Select Window Installations
Windows & door replacement specialists
P: 02 9938 1500
W: https://www.selectwindows.com.au/
E: sales@selectwindows.com.au
Humenergy
People, innovation and value sharing
P: 1300 322 622
W: https://www.humenergy.com.au/
E: Info@humenergy.com.au
The Green Guys Group
Australia’s Leading Energy Saving Partner
W: https://greenguys.com.au/
E: sean@greenguys.com.au
Arena Energy Consulting Pty Ltd
Independent Embedded Network Consulting Services
P: 0452 411 247
W: https://www.arenaenergyconsulting.com.au/
E: joseph@arenaenergyconsulting.com.au
Strata Energy Services
Simplifying Energy For Strata
P: 1300 060 111
W: http://www.strataenergyservices.com.au/
E: info@strataenergyservices.com.au
Valen Project Services
Client-Side Project Management Specialists
P: 02 8542 4293
W: https://valenprojects.com.au/
E: enquiries@valenprojects.com.au
Strata Solve
Untangling strata problems
P: 0419 805 898
W: https://stratasolve.com.au/
E: chris@stratasolve.com.au
Insight Resolutions
Reconcile and rebuild through mediation
P: 0413 334 633
W: https://insightresolutions.com.au/
E: vad.mediation@gmail.com
StrataLoans
The Experts in Strata Finance
P: 1300 785 045
W: https://www.strata-loans.com/
E: info@strata-loans.com
Lannock Strata Finance
The Leading Strata Finance Specialist
P: 1300 851 585
W: https://lannock.com.au/
E: strata@lannock.com.au
Austrata Finance
Pay Now or Pay Later: It’s Your Choice®
P: 1300 936 560
W: https://austratafinance.com.au/
E: info@austratafinance.com.au
Innovative Lift Consulting Pty Ltd
Australia’s Vertical Transportation Consultants
P: 0417 784 245
W: https://www.ilcpl.com.au/
E: bfulcher@ilcpl.com.au
The Lift Consultancy
Trusted Specialised Advice
P: 07 5509 0100
W: https://theliftc.com/
E: sidb@theliftc.com
sharonbennie – Property Recruitment
Matching top talent with incredible businesses
P: 0413 381 381
W: https://www.sharonbennie.com.au/
E: sb@sharonbennie.com.au
Ki Creative Design
Purposeful Design Solutions
P: 0451 541 006
E: kiara.mcilroy@gmail.com
Tinworth & Co
Chartered Accountant & Strata Auditors
P: 0499 025 069
W: https://www.tinworthaccountants.com.au/
E: caren.chen@tinworth.com
Matthew Faulkner Accountancy
Strata Auditing specialists
P: 0438 116 374
W: https://www.mattfaulkner.accountants/
E: matt@mattfaulkner.accountants
QUATRIX PTY LTD
Intercoms, Access Control, CCTV, Data, etc.
P: 02 9554 3487
W: https://www.quatrix.com.au/
E: info@quatrix.com.au
Lock, Stock & Barrel Locksmiths Pty Ltd
P: 0411 700 072
W: https://www.lsblocksmiths.com.au/
E: info@lsblocksmiths.com.au
Actualised Industries
A breath of fresh air
P: 1300 728 760
W: https://www.actualisedindustries.com.au/
E: admin@actualisedindustries.com.au
Arrow Abseiling Pty Ltd
Window cleaning, repair and maintenance
P: 02 8957 3693
W: https://www.arrowabseiling.com.au/
E: contact@arrowabseiling.com.au
Apt
Everything Roofing!
P: 02 9666 7373
W: https://www.aptroofing.com.au/
E: admin@aptroofing.com.au
Install
Professional TV Antenna Service For You Today
P: 1300 800 123
W: https://www.installmyantenna.com.au/
E: info@installmyantenna.com.au
Lifestyle
Clothesline and washing line supplier & installer
P: 1300 798 779
W: https://www.lifestyleclotheslines.com.au/
E: admin@lifestyleclotheslines.com.au
Groundfloor™
Australian parcel, mail, and refrigerated lockers
P: 03 9982 4462
W: https://groundfloordelivery.com/
E: ask@groundfloordelivery.com
