The VIC Strata Magazine | August 2023

The VIC STRATA MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2023

Demand management control and EV charging

Page 8 | Altogether Group

The purpose of the pipe determines the responsibility to repair and maintain

Page 18 | The Knight

Car owners cannot rely on strata insurance to cover vehicle damage

Page 22 | Strata Insurance Solutions

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.

Strata information is distributed freely to their dedicated audience of readers via regular Webinars, Magazines and Newsletters. The LookUpStrata audience also has free access to The LookUpStrata Directory, showcasing 100s of strata service professionals from across Australia. To take a look at the LookUpStrata Directory, flip to the end of this magazine.

Meet the team

Nikki began building LookUpStrata back in 2012 and officially launched the company early 2013. With a background in Information Management, LookUpStrata has helped Nikki realise her mission of providing detailed, practical, and easy to understand strata information to all Australians.

Nikki shares her time between three companies, including Tower Body Corporate, a body corporate company in SEQ. Nikki is also known for presenting regular strata webinars, where LookUpStrata hosts a strata expert to cover a specific topic and respond to audience questions.

Liza came on board in early 2020 to bring structure to LookUpStrata. She has a passion for processes, growth and education. This quickly resulted in the creation of The Strata Magazine released monthly in New South Wales and Queensland, and bi-monthly in Western Australia and Victoria. As of 2021, LookUpStrata now produce 33 state based online magazines a year. Among other daily tasks, Liza is involved in scheduling and liaising with upcoming webinar presenters, sourcing responses to audience questions and assisting strata service professionals who are interested in growing their business.

Liza Jovicic Sales and Content Manager

4 Building Innovation – technology helping owners better manage their buildings

Edwina Feilen, Sedgwick

6 Commercial decision to fix water damage issues rather than lodge a claim

Tyrone Shandiman, Strata Insurance Solutions

8 Demand management control and EV charging

Allan Parker, Altogether Group

10 Dangers of under insuring a strata building

Tyrone Shandiman, Strata Insurance Solutions

12 Do you have a water leak?

Phillip Leaman, Tisher Liner

14 Lot owner access to owners corporation records and information

Ben Quirk, Longview Owners Corporation

16 We don’t want the owners corporation to have access to our apartment

Ali Kaymakam, MBCM Strata Specialists

18 The purpose of the pipe determines the responsibility to repair and maintain

Sim Firns, The Knight

20 Local energy networks: strata’s Bright Future Energy On

22 Car owners cannot rely on strata insurance to cover vehicle damage

Tyrone Shandiman, Strata Insurance Solutions

24 Who replaces an apartment door damaged by the Fire Department?

Phillip Leaman, Tisher Liner

26 Meet the SCA (Vic) team Strata Community Association (Vic)

28 The VIC LookUpStrata Directory

Thanks to our sponsors

Building Innovation –technology helping owners better manage their buildings

Edwina Feilen, Sedgwick Australia, building consultancy divisionAugust 2023

In today’s world, consumers are demanding more for less and want things done quicker and in the most cost-efficient way. This is a big issue when it comes to the management of strata buildings as you cannot take any shortcuts. With an increasing global population, the high demand of built assets in both Australia and across the world has only fueled building-related problems publicised in the media.

In Australia, at least 1 in 6 Australians now live in buildings such as apartments and townhouses, otherwise known as strata-titled properties. Nationally, this equates to over 340,000 strata schemes with an estimated value of $ 2 8 million.

When looking to safeguard our home, one of the most important and expensive assets we will own in our life, the best practice is to be proactive. Strata owners need to stay abreast of the many challenges currently faced while also futureproofing their asset(s). Although we tend to fall back on past successes experienced using traditional methods, it is important to have an openness to new technologies and innovation designed to solve problems.

When we combine innovation with technology, it can play a pivotal role in how we collect data and use information. When managing strata buildings, it is important to consider several key factors including:

• Day-to-day running expenses

• Defect identification/remediation

• Placement of and rising cost of insurance

• Capital works/maintenance plans

• Environmental factors (e.g. rising cost of energy)

• The financial implications of all the above

In partnership with industry and government bodies and by working with customers, Sedgwick are working to drive societal change, improve environmental impacts and ensure safer and higher-quality buildings for generations to come. As part of our approach, we are excited to partner with Voltin and bring one of the most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to the strata market which focuses on identifying issues and defects to building façades.

No matter the age of a building, the solution provides a complete façade health check that will assist owners to identify what underlying issues exist and the remedial action required to resolve them. The AI not only identifies but it also classifies and digitally represents building defects, whilst at the same time delivering a lower cost and more accurate solution to automated building inspection. Once the façade image capture is completed, the system then provides the geotagged images in both white light and thermal imagery for algorithmic analysis. The data is provided in a detailed yet user-friendly report that can be used by owners and or other stakeholders. white light and thermal imagery for algorithmic analysis. The data is provided in a detailed yet user-friendly report that can be used by owners and or other stakeholders. For newer buildings still within their defect liability period or warranty period, this ensures issues are detected and managed early so builders have sufficient time to rectify them. For older buildings, it provides insights into underlying issues that, if left unchecked, could result in further degradation of the building and increased costs associated with remedial repair. Owner corporations/body corporates can then implement maintenance regimes and prepare and budget for capital works programs,

all of which will assist when considering insurance and maintaining the value of the building for future sale and/ or investment.

It’s inevitable over time buildings will require remedial repairs, but it’s how they are dealt with that has the biggest impact. By adopting an alternative approach through innovative thinking complemented by technology, strata communities will reap the holistic benefits of higher-quality buildings, giving consumers a voice, forcing behavioral change and providing financial security.

To learn more about our Building Innovation, contact:

Edwina Feilen Manager, Business Solutions

P. + 61 424 750 900

E. edwina.feilen@au.sedgwick.com

SEDGWICK’S BUILDING CONSULTANCY SERVICES

For the past 20 years we have provided expert building consultancy services. As the largest home warranty consultancy specialist team in Australia, Sedgwick has extensive capability in forensic building consultancy, Technical Inspection Service (TIS), policy assessments, preparation of scopes of work, tender validation processes and construction management.

Our specialty is the management of remediation work within the residential, multi-storey residential and mixed-use strata complex landscapes.

To learn more about our integrated and customised solutions, visit SEDGWICK.COM

Commercial decision to fix water damage issues rather than lodge a claim

To improve an owners corporation’s claims history, are owners corporations fixing water damage issues rather than claiming the repair on strata insurance? In what instance is this an option?

For significant claims, it can be a commercial decision of the owners corporation whether they want to step in and pay for the repairs. There can be an argument that the owners corporation cannot pay for repairs inside a lot, so that’s another consideration concerning water damage claims.

Particularly where an owners corporation is trying to improve its claims history, there will be instances when an owner or owners corporation will decide it’s not commercial to lodge a claim.

Where an owners corporation is trying to improve its claims history, there may be instances when an owner or owners corporation decide it’s not commercial to lodge a claim.

Likewise, in some instances we advise some clients to refrain from making a claim when the claim is only a few hundred dollars. In this instance, there’s no benefit. It costs the insurer more to administer the claim than what they pay out.

Particularly where an owners corporation is trying to improve its claims history, there will be instances when an owner or owners corporation will decide it’s not commercial to lodge a claim.

If an owners corporation is looking to not lodge a claim, we recommend seeking advice from your insurance adviser on this.

Tyrone Shandiman | Strata Insurance Solutions tshandiman@iaa.net.au

READ MORE HERE

Demand management control and EV charging

In a building, three electric vehicle owners were given approval to install their personal EV charging stations in their bay. Would the chargers have some built in demand management control?

If you’re thinking about EV charging, you need to have the ability to control and manage that charging system.

That’s the critical issue with these AC accelerated charges. They’re the chargers that are being sold and installed by Tesla etc. Most of these are enabled with demand management, and most of them can be programmed to have a maximum charge rate, etc. But they don’t consider the owners corporation’s usage. Owners corporations aren’t technically savvy enough to recognise the issue and impose conditions on the charger installations.

Chargers get installed and they have no demand control. That may be fine when you’ve got one or two EV chargers. But to

put it in context, a 7.2 kilowatt charger, which is the average accelerated charger for single phase, is 7.2 kilowatts at peak charge. That’s the equivalent of two and a half units’ demand. For every car, it’s two and a half lot’s power consumption. The case study on pages 17 and 18 of the presentation shows how demand varies by, say, climatic conditions or time of day, but there’s no diversity factor in a charger. If it’s on, it’s charging. It’s going hard.

Unless you have centralised control, you will be subject to demand. The 2.4 kilowatts options pose an issue as well. It’s just the scale. More cars will be able to charge before you get a problem, but you will eventually get that problem.

For strata properties, if you’re thinking about EV charging, you need to be able to control and manage that charging system. This way, no harm and no cost impost is placed on the building as a result of the aggregate charge.

Allan Parker | Altogether Group aparker@altogethergroup.com.au

Do you have a strata project that needs funding?

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.

Repairs & Renovations

Levy Assist Loan

Insurance Premium Funding Strata Asset Renewal

Dangers of underinsuring a strata building

What are the dangers of underinsurance? This is particularly relevant in the current climate where valuations are rapidly skyrocketing.

The danger of underinsuring is that you will have a major or total loss and not be covered.

There are a couple of dangers with underinsurance. First and foremost, by law, you must ensure your building for full replacement value in every state and territory in Australia. Failing to do so can result in fines and penalties for the owners corporation.

I’ve seen a building that didn’t get a valuation every five years and was underinsured and it was a total loss. In the event of a total loss, unfortunately, the body corporate or owners corporation has to make up the losses for

that claim. The danger of underinsuring is that you will have a major or total loss and not be covered.

Most property policies have a clause that says if your insurance value is 80 percent or below what it should be, the insurance company will only pay a portion of that claim if it’s a partial loss. With strata Insurance, because you’re required to insure for full replacement value, that clause is not part of the policy.

Tyrone Shandiman | Strata Insurance Solutions tshandiman@iaa.net.au

Lot owner access to owners corporation records and information

Major decisions have been made in our building. As a lot owner who is not on the committee, what information should be passed on to owners and when?

I am not part of the committee and missed the last AGM (more than 15 months ago) due to work commitments. Since then, I have received no information about the property despite several major special levies and improvement works. These were not part of the minutes from the AGM.

When I questioned this, I was told I’d given up my right to information when I didn’t attend the meeting. I thought I’d given up the right to vote, not the right to information.

I only found out we’d changed owners corporation managers when I received the new levy notice. What is the committee’s responsibility to keep owners informed of major decisions?

We paid a special levy to get the gate fixed. However, the committee used the money to repair a roof. I was not informed of this decision to change the use of the funds until I noticed the unfixed gate and tried to find out where the money for the ‘special levy’ went.

An owner still has the right to information that forms part of the records of the owners corporation even if they do not attend the Annual General Meeting.

Firstly, the committee have the delegated authority to pass an ordinary resolution to strike an extraordinary fee/special levy for the repair of the gate unless the cost of the repair is more than double the annual fees of the owners corporation. This would require a special resolution requiring 75% of lot owners to agree to the repair for the resolution to pass. If the special resolution is voted on at a meeting or by ballot, an interim special resolution can be passed where at least 50% of the votes for all lots affect by the owners corporation are in favour and not more than 25% of the votes are opposed. The interim special resolution becomes a special resolution 29 days after the motion was passed unless lot owners who hold more than 25% of the total votes for the lots affected by the owners corporation petition the secretary against the resolution.

If the cost of the repairs requires an ordinary resolution, the committee can revoke the resolution for the gate repair and resolve to strike the special levy for the roof repair.

To do this, they must officially revoke the original resolution to strike the special levy for the gate repair and pass a new motion to strike the levy for the roof repair. They should then inform all owners of the committee’s decision to:

1. Revoke the resolution for the gate repair and striking of the special levy to fund this repair and:

2. The committee have resolved to engage a contractor to repair the roof and further resolved to pass an ordinary resolution to strike a special levy to all owners to fund the project.

A diligent and transparent committee should inform owners as to why the committee decided to get the roof repaired instead of the gate repaired.

An owner still has the right to information that forms part of the records of the owners corporation even if they do not attend the

Annual General Meeting. Section 144 of the Owners Corporation Act 2006 lists the records the owners corporation must keep. The owners corporation must make the records available to an owner to inspect at any reasonable time, free of charge. An owners corporation must, at the request of an owner who is entitled to inspect the records and, upon payment of a reasonable fee, provide a copy of any record of the owners corporation. The fee must not exceed the prescribed maximum fee, which can be found on the Consumer Affairs Victoria Website.

Ben Quirk | Longview Owners Corporation ben.quirk@longview.com.au

READ MORE HERE

We don’t want the owners corporation to have access to our apartment

If our doors are lot property, can the owners corporation force owners to change to a registered key system? We don’t want the owners corporation to have unauthorised access to our lot.

Our owners corporation is forcing all lot owners to change their lot door locks. The new system has a registered key, and the owners corporation will have access to that key system.

Are the doors lot property or common property? If they are lot property, can the owners corporation demand this?

We do not want the owners corporation to have unauthorised access to our apartment.

If access to your lot is required, the owners corporation must give you a Notice of Entry under the Act.

The owners corporation cannot force owners to update the door locks to a registered lock system.

Assuming the locks are private property, the owners corporation doesn’t have the right to change locks or force migration to a registered key system (regardless of whether or not they pass a special resolution).

The owners corporation has no authority to request or hold any keys to your private property. If access to your lot is needed, the owners corporation is obligated to provide you with a Notice of Entry as required by the Act, ensuring your privacy and rights as a property owner are respected.

Additionally, if your owners corporation has implemented a registered key system to enhance the overall security of the building, it is necessary to have a registered installer cut your key. In the event of a security breach, it is advisable to have a registered installer replace the hardware, as a regular locksmith cannot duplicate your apartment key. It’s important to note that the owners corporation manager, chairperson, or any committee member is not permitted to possess copies of keys to your private property.

Ali Kaymakam | MBCM Strata Specialists administration@mbcm.com.au

The purpose of the pipe determines the responsibility to repair and maintain

The sole purpose of the pipe will determine the responsibility to repair and maintain it in this situation.

The sole purpose of the pipe will determine the responsibility to repair and maintain it in this situation.

If the pipe only services one lot, is that lot owner responsible for any repairs? Because the pipe is outside the boundary of the unit, our strata manager says it’s common property. Is this correct?

A leak has been identified in unit A. A leak detection service investigated and determined the leak was under the slab of the unit located across from unit A. The pipe services hot water only to unit A, and unit A is the only lot impacted.

Because the pipe is outside the boundary of unit A on the Plan of Subdivision, our strata manager and her line manager both say it’s common property. If the pipe only services one lot, is that lot owner responsible for any repairs?

The owners corporation doesn’t have enough in our sinking fund to cover the repair. We have raised a special levy to pay for the works.

We are concerned that insurance will not cover the repair as it may be determined as wear and tear. Is the owners corporation responsible for repairs?

We don’t want to waste owners corporation’s money unnecessarily, especially in these times.

If you have not already done so, we suggest you obtain a copy of the plumber’s report which should confirm the location of the pipe and any lot(s) which it services.

In accordance with the Act and as noted on the Consumer Affairs website, “The owners corporation is responsible for the common property – the Owners Corporations Act 2006 states that the owners corporation must, among other things, manage, administer, repair and maintain the common property.”

You have noted above that the pipe exclusively services lot A, and only lot A is impacted by the issue.

Section 129 of the Act states:

A lot owner must—

1. properly maintain in a state of good and serviceable repair any part of the lot that affects the outward appearance of the lot or the use or enjoyment of other lots or the common property; and

2. maintain any service that serves that lot exclusively.

We suggest that, if the plumber’s report fails to confirm the location/purpose of the pipe, contact the plumber to confirm the usage/service and to include that with the report.

It might be possible for you to claim this under insurance; however, this would depend on

the excess payable and whether that outweighs the cost of the repairs. Further, the insurer will require a report from the plumber as to what caused the pipe to crack/burst. You would then need to check this against your policy to determine whether coverage is provided.

Without viewing the report and based on your comments above, this is likely a private lot owner responsibility, and all costs of rectification should be borne by lot A. Provide the owner of this lot with the report from the plumbers and relevant sections of the Act to advise that they are responsible for the repairs.

This is also stipulated under section 16(1) of the Water Act 1989, which states:

If—

a. there is a flow of water from the land of a person onto any other land; and

b. that flow is not reasonable; and

c. the water causes—

i. injury to any other person; or

ii. damage to the property (whether real or personal) of any other person; or

iii. any other person to suffer economic loss—the person who caused the flow is liable to pay damages to that other person in respect of that injury, damage, or loss.

Should you still require further clarification, we strongly encourage you to obtain independent legal advice.

Sim Firns | The Knight ella@theknight.com.au

READ MORE HERE

LOCAL ENERGY NETWORKS

Strata's Bright Future

Written by Sarah Shevy

Are there advantages to Local Energy Networks?

What are the advantages of an Local Energy Network over traditional energy supply?

There is bulk purchasing of the electricity at the Parent Meter at a reduced cost compared to individual occupiers would pay in a non-Embedded Network or nonLocal Energy Network It also means that instead of having multiple network connections, there’s only one. That results in a reduced cost for the for the whole building And the owners, with the LES provider, can direct those cost savings into discounts for what would otherwise be independent contracts from various electricity retailers

Highlights

How can you ensure smooth transition when implementing a Local Energy Network?

Clive: There’s a myriad of advantages of Local Energy Networks over traditional energy supply methods, which can provide attractive discounts to occupiers while generating profits for the Owners Corporation By giving the Owners Corporation Committee control, the ability to balance discounts and profits ensures a fair distribution of benefits to match the site’s requirements. Furthermore, bulk purchasing of energy at the Parent Meter (the meter through which electricity is supplied to the Local Energy Network) reduces costs resulting in overall savings for the building An Energy On Local Energy Network ensures fair rates for occupants and transparent reporting for management. Embedded Networks, now known as Local Energy Networks (LENs) in Victoria, are where a private and local network distributes and sells electricity to all individual occupiers in a multi-tenanted building, which could be residential, commercial or a mix of both. Solar Generation has emerged as a game-changer in Local Energy Networks in strata buildings, offering a host of benefits for building owners and occupiers. A good Local Energy Service (LES) provider (Previously Embedded Network Operator) offers control and visibility over the energy network, enabling cost savings through bulk energy purchasing and a single network connection In the interview, we focus on understanding the benefits of LENs, the integration of solar power, and the appeal of renewable energy solutions We conduct this interview with Clive Pearce,

Managing Director of

Energy

On, and Shawn Misquith, Energy Services Engineer and CEC Accredited Solar Designer

Protecting the rights of individual occupiers in LENs is one of the objectives of the Regulators A key aspect of this is informing occupiers about the LEN, its advantages, how it operates and gaining explicit informed consent from them to allow the LEN to be formed. Communication is key and a good LES provider will assist the Committee in this process We have a stepby-step communication strategy, and we work with you to keep occupiers informed of any changes.

Outline the advantages of Solar Installations in Local Energy Networks

Shawn: Integrating solar installations with LENs offers numerous advantages. It leads to further reduced cost of electricity, as you are generating your own electricity, rather than buying that quantity from an external retailer. It is more equitable for multi-storey sites where only the top floor might have the right to install solar

Alternatively, the Owners Corporation might own the roof rights and so can use this for a common asset such as solar. A large-scale solar array is less expensive than several smaller arrays dedicated to individual owners and is more versatile as it can be shared between all occupiers. The consumption of the occupiers, typically more than doubles the usage that can be supplied to just the common area, improving the percentage of solar that can be self-consumed on the site. This is an area which can improve the financial efficiency of the solar and improve pay back periods And of course, having solar panels enhances the building’s green credentials which can boost the resale value of the property

Clive: Energy On is an advocate of solar being included within a LEN For the solar output that’s generated from the solar panels, a LEN is the most effective way of using the solar for the benefit of the common area and the occupiers. And it supports more solar than can just be used in the common area to be installed at the site So that the benefit goes not just to the common area but enables discounts for the occupiers

How can you take advantage of a free initial solar consultation and learn more about Local Energy Networks?

Clive: Speak to us The optimisation of the solar array is really a key factor and that’s what we’re offering A solar assessment means looking at what’s the right type of equipment, what’s the right quantity and how you’re going to use the solar, to determine the right size and cost for your solar array

Too little solar is almost as bad as too much solar, because with low feed in tariffs (payment you receive for excess solar not used on site) and the local distributor limiting the amount exported, it’s easy to have too much cost tied up in solar and not generating sufficient revenue for it

How can you take advantage of a free initial solar consultation and learn more about Local Energy Networks?

Shawn: There are some things that you can look into before reaching out to a professional, it’s more of an assessment of your own building; how suitable it could be for solar

Before installing solar panels, it is crucial to thoroughly assess various factors related to your building’s infrastructure, including its electrical and structural aspects

Additionally, it is essential to determine the status of roof rights and visible amenity, as well as whether the building is overshadowed by nearby structures Keep in mind that solar installation might necessitate drilling into your rooftop, which could potentially exacerbate any existing issues with a leaky roof Therefore, gathering as much information as possible beforehand will help make an informed decision and ensure a successful and trouble-free solar installation We discuss these ideas with you and anything that is specific to your building in performing our solar consultation. Our initial solar consultation can show you ways solar can be installed with little disruption if you have considered these factors.

By embracing solar installations and other energy-efficient technologies, you can enhance sustainability and reduce expenses

The potential for driving positive change in the energy landscape remains significant for LENs

If you would like to discuss solar in a Local Energy Network, storage, or other energy l i E O i

Having solar panels enhances the building’s green credentials which can boost the resale value of the property.

Our initial solar consultation can show you ways solar can be installed with little disruption.

Car owners cannot rely on strata insurance to cover vehicle damage

Who is responsible for the repair costs when a car parked in an owner’s parking space sustains cable damage caused by rats?

Car owners cannot rely on strata insurance to cover vehicle damage.

Damage to motor vehicles is typically not covered under strata insurance policies. Strata insurance primarily focuses on insuring the building structure and common areas rather than individual vehicles. Therefore, car owners cannot rely on strata insurance to cover damage to their vehicles.

For this reason, the policy that should respond to damage to vehicles is car insurance. The insurer will assess the claims in accordance with their terms and conditions. If the insurer determines the owners corporation is liable, they have the ability to pursue a recovery against the insurer.

Strata insurance can respond under the public liability section when the owners corporation is legally liable for the damage.

Determining liability in these cases is not always straightforward. When a demand is made to the owners corporation, it may be

referred to the insurer for a legal liability claim assessment. The assessment is typically conducted on a case-by-case basis and can involve solicitors and, in some instances, judges if the claim escalates to court.

An example where the owners corporation could be found to be liable is in the instance of a know rat infestation where the owners corporation should have reasonably known about it but failed to take appropriate measures. They may be held liable for the resulting damage to vehicles.

When faced with rat damage to a vehicle in an owners’ car park, it is crucial to understand that strata insurance does not cover such damages. Car owners should initiate a claim with their motor insurer, who will then assess the liability of the owners corporation. While owners corporations have a duty of care to vehicle owners, that duty of care is not unlimited and will unlikely extend to things beyond their control. Ultimately, each claim is evaluated on its own merits, considering the specific circumstances and available evidence.

Tyrone Shandiman | Strata Insurance Solutions tshandiman@iaa.net.au

Who replaces an apartment door damaged by the Fire Department?

Fire Rescue Victoria damaged the door to our vacant apartment when they responded to a nuisance fire call. Who is responsible for the cost of replacing the door?

Our apartment door was damaged when Fire Rescue Victoria responded to a call from an unknown person reporting suspicion of a fire in our unit. The apartment was not tenanted at the time. There was no fire.

Who should pay the $2000 bill to replace the door? Neither the lot owner, resident, nor owners corporation had any involvement in the incident. Who is responsible for the replacement of the door?

If it is common property, the owners corporation might pass on the cost to the lot owner under the benefit principle.

The first step is to work out whether the door is common property or private lot property, as that will determine whose responsibility the repair and maintenance/ replacement is. Then the next step is to see whether the event is covered by insurance and whether an insurance claim should be made. If it is common property, the owners corporation might pass on the cost to the lot owner under the benefit principle.

Phillip

Leaman | Tisher Liner FC Law ocenquiry@tlfc.com.au

READ MORE HERE

We are a small boutique style management company, keeping it simple and streamlined Due to the manageable size of our portfolio, communication is prompt and backed up with the necessary service and support.

At the end of the day, it is a service industry and reputations are based on the service and support that management companies provide.

If you as an owner are currently thinking that you are paying for poor service with little support and communication, why not give us a quick call? You may be pleasantly surprised.

Good

strata management

hinges on regular communication and prompt service.

‘‘A surprising approach to Strata Management’’

Take a look at some of our recent activities, and our upcoming events to see how you can learn and be a part of our thriving strata community in Victoria.

MEET THE SCA (VIC) TEAM

The SCA (Vic) Office over the past few months has been building our team to ensure we provide our members with high standards of education, useful resources, regular networking opportunities and effective representation to government.

Feel free to reach out to the office for assistance on (03)9416 4688 or via the emails below.

General Manager

Susan Chandler

E: susan.chandler@strata.community

Education Coordinator

Sam Osborne

E: sam.osborne@strata.community

Membership & Administration Officer

T-Lee Mason

E: t-lee.mason@strata.community

Policy & Advocacy Officer

Josh Karpin

E: josh.karpin@strata.community

Marketing & Communications Officer

Nioka Mellick-Cooper

E: nioka.mellickcooper@strata.community

Become a Member of SCA (Vic)

Join us and benefit from:

•Representation to Government and Statutory authorities

•Promotion of the Strata Property Sector

•Professional practice guidelines and ethical standards

•Professional development through seminars, workshops, and conferences (and CPD points)

•Exclusive use of SCA (Vic) logos and marketing materials

New member enquiries� membership.vic@strata.community

SCA (Vic) submission to the Rental and Housing Affordability Crisis Inquiry

SCA (Vic) recently provided a submission to the Victorian Parliament in relation to the inquiry into the rental and housing affordability crisis in Victoria. We outlined that living in strata developments, whether renting or buying, is generally more affordable for Victorians than buying or renting a house and that strata developments can have broader positive impacts when it comes to cost-of living and sustainability.

In addition, we proposed regulatory reforms for the State Government to factor into any steps to incorporate affordable and/or social housing into existing and upcoming strata developments. These proposed reforms are intended to support current and future strata residents, increase the overall amenity of strata living, and ensure ongoing strata-related expenses (such as levies) can be successfully met.

SCA (Vic) welcomes any opportunity to advocate on behalf of our members and the strata sector and will continue to work with government to deliver beneficial outcomes.

Read the full report – SCA (Vic) Submission to Rental and Housing Affordability Crisis Inquiry

Melbourne Careers Expo Summary

From the 14th-16th of July we held a booth at the Melbourne Careers Expo. The event attracted over 15,000 visitors from Friday to Sunday. With school leavers, university students and those looking for career changes attending, it was a great opportunity to promote a career in Strata and provide information on training pathways and current opportunities. Many SCA (Vic) members volunteered on the stand over the three days and were able talk directly to attendees about their journeys to entering the strata industry and their career experiences.

SCA (Vic), CHU, Symposium

Date: 6th-7th September 2023

Venue: Caulfield Racecourse

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A flagship event on the SCA (VIC) Calendar, our annual Symposium is coming up. Held on the 6-7th of September at Caulfield Racecourse, this event allows us all to get together in the spirit of collaboration and professional growth and discuss several issues and subjects of critical importance to our sector. The theme this year is Stepping into a Strata Positive Future. Click on the link below to go to the SCA Website for more details

SCA Website

Vodcast: Committee Conversations (free event)

Date: Friday 4th August 2023 online

This Vodcast will cover a range of topics, from off the plan to completion challenges for first appointed committees.

Registration link

SCA (Vic) Webinar: Public Speaking For Strata Managers

Date: Friday 25th August 2023 online

Member price: $55

CPD: � �����

A webinar tailored for strata managers, aimed at enhancing public speaking skills to facilitate successful committee meetings. This interactive session includes practical examples and expert advice for both seasoned and novice managers.

Registration link

Vodcast: Committee Conversations (free event)

Date: Friday 1st September 2023 online

This webinar will be touching on a tension between airspace, sustainability matters, telecommunications and how to best carve up the common property pie.

Registration link

Education Workshop: Reading Plans (Introductory level)

Date: Wednesday 30th August 2023

Time: 9:30am-12:30pm

Venue: Manningham Function Centre, Doncaster

Member price: $99 (includes morning tea on arrival)

CPD: ��� ������

This in-person event conducted by a senior lawyer will provide you with all you need to know to read and understand building plans. Reading building plans equips strata managers with vital understanding of the property’s layout and structural details, enabling them to effectively plan maintenance, emergency procedures, renovations, and resolve property-related disputes. This is an essential tool for proactive, efficient property management.

Registration link

SCA (Vic) Pillar Awards of Excellence

Date: Friday 27th October

Venue: Leonda By The Yarra Time: 6:30pm – midnight

This gala event recognises and rewards businesses and individuals who make � significant contributio� �� the strata industry and community.

Registration link

EDUCATION & TRAINING

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

FACILITY MANAGEMENT

LUNA

Building and Facilities Manager

P: 1800 00 LUNA (5862)

W: https://www.luna.management/

E: info@luna.management

Australian Facilities Management

Integrated facilities management services & solutions

P: 03 9816 4722

W:https://www.australianfacilitiesmanagement.com.au/

E: info@australianfacilitiesmanagement.com.au

Elite Building Managers Australia

Building Manager experts.

P: 0420 520 976

W: https://www.elitebma.com/

E: matt@elitebma.com

RFM Facility Management Pty Ltd

Strata and Specialist Cleaners

P: 1300 402 524

W: https://www.rfmfacilitymanagement.com.au/

E: nathan@rfmfacilitymanagement.com.au

Rise Facilities Facilities and Building Management Solved.

W: https://www.risefacilities.com.au/

E: service@risefacilities.com.au

Mimor

Connecting People – Creating Communities

P: 0414 228 644

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

ResVu

Customer Service Software for Strata

P: 08 7477 8991

W: https://resvu.com.au/

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: http://www.stratavaults.com/

E: team@thestratavault.com

Urbanise

Automate your workload to increase efficiency.

P: 1300 832 852

W: https://www.urbanise.com/

E: marketing@urbanise.com

BUILDING ENGINEERS & INSPECTORS BUILDING ENGINEERS & INSPECTORS

Sedgwick

Building Consultancy Division & Repair Solutions

W: https://www.sedgwick.com/solutions/global/au

E: sales@au.sedgwick.com

QIA Group

Compliance 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

Roscon

Property services & facilities management

P: 1800 767 266

W: https://www.roscon.com.au/

E: info@roscon.com

Solutions in Engineering

Quality Reports On Time, Every Time!

P: 1300 136 036

W: https://www.solutionsinengineering.com/

E: enquiry@solutionsinengineering.com

Forte Asset Services

Fire | Electrical | HVAC

P: 1300 920 752

W: https://www.forteassetservices.com.au/

E: info@forteas.com.au

Budget Vals

Built For Strata

P: 1300 148 150

W: https://www.budgetvals.com.au/

E: reports@budgetvals.com.au

HFM Asset Management Pty Ltd

Leaders in Building Efficiency

P: 1300 021 420

W: https://www.hfmassets.com.au/

E: info@hfmassets.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

Mabi Services

Valuations, Maintenance Plans, Asbestos

P: 1300 762 295

W: https://www.mabi.com.au/

E: info@mabi.com.au

Quality Building Management

keeping your buildings legally compliant and safe

P: 1300 880 466

W: https://qbm.com.au/

E: qbm@qbm.com.au

CORE Consulting Engineers

Delivering 360° engineering solutions for strata

P: 02 8961 3250

W: https://core.engineering/

E: admin@core.engineering

Essential Services Compliance

Essential safety measures reporting & fire safety

P: 03 9816 4840

W: https://essentialservicescompliance.com.au/

E: admin@escompliance.com.au

Leary & Partners: quantity surveying services

Quantity Surveying Services Since 1977

P: 1800 808 991

W: https://www.leary.com.au/index.php/

E: enquiries@leary.com.au

INSURANCE

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

P: 1800 022 444

W: https://www.chu.com.au/

E: info_nsw@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

VALUERS

Adelaide StrataVal

Strata & Community Insurance Valuations

P: 08 7111 2956

W: https://www.strataval.com.au/

E: valuations@strataval.com.au

STRATA LAWYERS

Tisher Liner FC Law Pty Ltd

Experts in Owners Corporations Law

P: 03 8600 9314

W: https://tlfc.com.au/expertise/owners-corporation/

E: ocenquiry@tlfc.com.au

Bastion Legal

Experts in plumbers insurance law

P: (03) 8457 7751

W: https://bastionlegal.com.au/

E: info@bastionlegal.com.au

RC & Co Lawyers

Effective, resource, clear.

P: 1300 072 626

W: https://www.rccolawyers.com/

E: assistant@rccolawyers.com

Douglas Cheveralls Lawyers

The Go-To Strata Lawyers

P: 08 9380 9288

W: https://www.dclawyers.com.au/

E: office@dclawyers.com.au

Bugden Allen Graham Lawyers

Specialising in property development & strata law

P: 02 9199 1055

W: http://www.bugdenallenlawyers.com.au/

E: info@bagl.com.au

Holman Webb Lawyers

Body Corporate and Strata Dispute Experts

P: 61 732 350 100

W: https://www.holmanwebb.com.au/

E: icontact@holmanwebb.com.au

Grace Lawyers

Know. Act. Resolve.

P: 03 9674 0474

W: https://gracelawyers.com.au/

E: enquiries@gracelawyers.com.au

Aitken Partners

Law firm with a dedicated OC team

P: 03 8600 6000

W: https://www.aitken.com.au/

E: dandronaco@aitken.com.au

Royer Mace Lawyers

Your Property is our Priority

P: 0434 388 898

W: https://royermace.com.au/

E: solon@royermace.com.au

STRATA MANAGEMENT

The Knight

Strong family values & real hands-on experience

P: 03 9509 3144

W: https://www.theknight.com.au/

E: newbusiness@theknight.com.au

StrataPoint Owners Corp.

“A surprising approach to Strata Management”

P: 03 8726 9962

W: https://stratapoint.com.au/

E: Hello@stratapoint.com.au

Strata Management Consultants

We Help Committees to Change OC Companies

P: 1300 917 848

W: https://www.strataconsultants.com.au/

E: office@strataconsultants.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

Stratabase Holdings P/L

Integrity & excellence in Owner’s Corp Management

P: 0412247589

W: https://stratabasemgt.com/

E: ingrid@stratabasemgt.com

Quantum United Management

Creating vibrant and connected communities

P: 61 383 608 800

W: https://www.quantumunited.com.au/

E: info@quantumunited.com.au

SOCM

Owners Corporation Management Melbourne

P: 03 9495 0005

W: https://socm.com.au/

E: info@socm.com.au

Network Pacific Strata Management

Supporting our strata communities

P: 07 5609 8677

W: www.networkpacificstratamanagement.com.au/

E: info@networkpacific.com.au

Bright & Duggan

Strata Professionals

P: 0299027100

W: https://bright-duggan.com.au/

E: customercare@bright-duggan.com.au

Body Corporate Victoria

Specialist provider of strata management in Melbourne

P: 03 9807 2211

W: https://bodycorpvic.com.au/

E: info@bodycorpvic.com.au

Engine Property Group

Your dedicated OC managers, thinkers, and solvers

P: 03 9235 9900

W: https://www.enginepropertygroup.com.au/

E: reception@enginepropertygroup.com.au

CLEANING / CLEAN AIR

Actualised Industries

A breath of fresh air

P: 1300 728 760

W: https://www.actualisedindustries.com.au/

E: admin@actualisedindustries.com.au

Clean As You Go

Leaders in Caretaking and Facility Maintenance

P: 1300 525 651

W: http://www.cleanasyougo.com.au/

E: info@cleanasyougo.com.au

1800 AUS JUNK

We get rid of your junk.

P: 1800 287 586

W: https://ausjunk.com.au/

E: info@ausjunk.com.au

STRATA LOAN PROFESSIONALS

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

ELECTRICAL

Energy On Pty Ltd

Providing utility network solutions

P: 1300 323 263

W: https://www.energyon.com.au/

E: EnergyServices@EnergyOn.com.au

ENM Solutions

Providing Solutions for Embedded Networks

P: 1300 000 366

W: https://www.enmsolutions.com.au/

E: info@ENMSolutions.com.au

LIFTS & ELEVATORS

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

Strategic Lift Solutions

We know Lifts and we make things happen!

P: 0475 353 090

W: https://www.strategicliftsolutions.com.au/

E: lynne@strategicliftsolutions.com.au

ABN Lift Consultants

A team of friendly, open minded professionals

P: 0468 659 100

W: https://www.abnlift.com/

E: andrew@abnlift.com

PAINTING

Higgins Coatings Pty Ltd

Specialist painters in the strata industry

P: 1300 HIGGINS

W: https://www.higgins.com.au/

E: info@higgins.com.au

CPR Facade Upgrade Specialists

We clean, repair & repaint multi-storey buildings

P: 0493 651 643

W: https://cprfacadeupgrades.com.au/

E: info@facadeupgrades.com.au

Dulux Property Services

Total Building Maintenance & Remedial Solutions

P: 0434 834 799

W: https://www.duluxconstructionsolutions.com.au/

E: propertyservice@dulux.com.au

Avello Group

Painting Services for Owners Corp properties

P: 1300 283 556

W: https://avello.com.au/

E: estimating@avello.com.au

MARKETING

Ki Creative Design

Purposeful Design Solutions

P: 0451 541 066

E: kiara.mcilroy@gmail.com

ENERGY

Strata Energy Services

Simplifying Energy For Strata

P: 1300 060 111

W: http://www.strataenergyservices.com.au/

E: info@strataenergyservices.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

RECRUITMENT SERVICES FRANCHISERS

sharonbennie – Property Recruitment

Matching top talent with incredible businesses

P: 0413 381 381

W: https://www.sharonbennie.com.au/

E: sb@sharonbennie.com.au

Essential Recruitment Solutions

Specialising in Strata recruitment

P: 0448 319 770

W: https://www.essentialrecruitmentsolutions.com.au/

E: maddison@essentialrecruitmentsolutions.com

ACCOUNTANTS

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

SUSTAINABILITY

The Green Guys Group

Australia’s Leading Energy Saving Partner

W: https://www.greenguys.com.au/

E: sean@greenguys.com.au

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Alpha14 Property Group

Project Management Services

P: 0417 378 331

W: https://alpha14.com.au/

E: projects@alpha14.com.au

DELIVERY & COLLECTION SERVICES

Groundfloor™

Australian parcel, mail, and refrigerated lockers

P: 03 9982 4462

W: https://groundfloordelivery.com/

E: ask@groundfloordelivery.com

Network Pacific Strata Franchise

Join our successful team

P: 03 9999 5488

W: www.networkpacificstratafranchise.com.au/

E: networkpacific@franchisedevelopments.com.au

Install My Antenna

Professional TV Antenna Service For You Today

P: 1300 800 123

W: https://www.installmyantenna.com.au/

E: info@installmyantenna.com.au

ANTENNAS AUDITORS

Property Audit & Assurance

Strata & Managed Property Auditing Specialists

P: 03 9525 3777

W: http://www.lowelippmann.com.au/

E: paa@llca.com.au

CLOTHES LINES

Lifestyle Clotheslines

Clothesline and washing line supplier & installer

P: 1300 798 779

W: https://www.lifestyleclotheslines.com.au/

E: admin@lifestyleclotheslines.com.au

STRATA REPORTS

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

Rawlinsons

Calculated Confidence

P: 08 9424 5800

W: https://www.rawlinsonswa.com.au/

E: info@rawlinsonswa.com.au

CONSULTING

Strata Solve

Untangling strata problems

P: 0419 805 898

W: https://stratasolve.com.au/

E: chris@stratasolve.com.au

INVESTMENT SERVICES

Strata Guardian

Fight low returns and rising levies with us

P: 1300 482 736

W: https://www.strataguardian.com/

E: contact@strataguardian.com

DEFECT RESTORATION FIRE SERVICES

Linkfire Pty Ltd

Your essential safety partner

P: 1300 323 263

W: https://www.linkfrire.com.au/

E: sales@linkfire.com.au

24:seven Maintenance Solutions

Comprehensive building maintenance services

P: +61 3 9008 5423

W: https://24sevenms.com.au/

E: admin@24sevenms.com.au

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As of April 2022, The Strata Magazines received a national audience engagement of around 20,000 views within one month of their release.

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