Renovating in a Strata Community: What You Need to Know
Dreaming of a fresh new look for your apartment or townhouse here on the Sunshine Coast? At Sunstate Strata, based in Marcoola, we understand the desire to personalise your home. However, when you live in a strata community, renovating isn’t as simple as grabbing a hammer and paint. There are specific rules and approval processes you need to navigate to ensure your project complies with strata regulations in Queensland. Understanding these requirements upfront is crucial to avoid common pitfalls, costly delays, and potential disputes with your Body Corporate or neighbours. Let’s guide you through the process of renovating successfully within a strata community.
Why Strata Rules Matter for Renovations
Unlike a standalone house, when you own a lot in a strata scheme, you own your individual unit but also share ownership and responsibility for the common property with other lot owners. This shared ownership is governed by the Body Corporate, which operates under Queensland’s Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 and its associated regulations. These regulations dictate what you can and cannot do to your property, particularly concerning structural changes, external appearance, and anything that might impact common property or other residents. The aim is to protect the integrity of the building, maintain consistent aesthetics, and ensure harmonious living for everyone.
The Approval Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve categorised your renovation, follow these steps:
- Read Your By-Laws: This is paramount! Your Body Corporate’s specific by-laws might have additional rules or a more stringent approval process than the general BCCM Act. They often detail what requires approval, soundproofing requirements, and permitted finishes.
- Submit a Formal Application: Prepare a detailed written application to your Body Corporate. This should include:
- A clear description of the proposed works.
- Detailed plans, drawings, and specifications (professional plans for structural work).
- List of materials to be used.
- Proposed start and completion dates.
- Details of contractors, their licences, and insurance.
- For changes affecting noise (e.g., hard flooring), provide acoustic reports or soundproofing plans.
- For changes affecting services (plumbing, electrical), demonstrate how common property services will not be negatively impacted.
- Await Approval:
- Minor Work: May be approved by the Body Corporate Committee.
- Major Work: Often requires a special resolution passed by all lot owners at a General Meeting (requiring a 2/3rds majority). This process can take time, so plan accordingly.
- Engage Licensed Contractors: Always use licensed and insured tradespeople. The Body Corporate may request their details and evidence of insurance.
- Notify and Minimise Disruption: Once approved, notify your neighbours of the upcoming work. Plan to minimise noise, dust, and disruption, especially to common areas. Stick to approved working hours.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Starting Without Approval: This is the biggest mistake. Unapproved work can lead to hefty fines, orders to reinstate the property to its original state, and significant disputes.
- Ignoring By-Laws: Don’t assume. Always read your specific Body Corporate by-laws.
- Poor Communication: Failing to communicate effectively with the Body Corporate and neighbours.
- Underestimating Impact: Not considering how your renovation might affect shared services (plumbing, wiring) or noise transmission.
At Sunstate Strata, we are here to simplify the strata living experience for our communities across the Sunshine Coast. If you’re planning a renovation, contact us early. We can help you understand the requirements, guide you through the application process, and ensure your project runs smoothly and successfully within your strata community. Let’s make your dream home a reality, the right way.
Email or contact Sunstate Strata on 07 5450 5300 or visit our office which is located at – Suite 5 / Seaside on the Lake” Corner Seaside Boulevard & Merchants Parade Marcoola, QLD.
