Renovating in a Strata Community: What You Need to Know

Renovating in a Strata Community can be an exciting way to refresh your apartment or townhouse, but it also comes with important responsibilities. If you live on the Sunshine Coast, understanding strata regulations before you start is essential. At Sunstate Strata, based in Marcoola, we regularly help owners navigate renovation approvals so projects run smoothly, legally, and without unnecessary stress.

Unlike standalone homes, strata properties operate under shared ownership rules. This means renovations must comply with Queensland legislation and your Body Corporate’s by-laws. Knowing what’s required upfront can save you time, money, and potential disputes with neighbours or the Body Corporate.

Why Strata Rules Matter When Renovating

When you own a strata lot, you own your individual space while sharing responsibility for common property such as walls, roofs, plumbing, and external areas. These shared assets are managed by the Body Corporate under the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 (QLD).

Strata rules exist to:

Protect building integrity
Structural changes can affect the safety and longevity of the entire complex, not just one lot.
Maintain visual consistency
External changes are regulated to preserve property value and aesthetic appeal.
Ensure peaceful community living
Noise, vibration, and access disruptions are carefully managed for everyone’s comfort.

This is especially relevant for Sunshine Coast strata renovations, where lifestyle living and property value go hand in hand.

Understanding Renovation Types in Strata Properties

Before applying for approval, it’s important to identify the type of renovation you’re planning:

Minor renovations
These may include painting internal walls, installing cabinetry, or replacing fixtures. While simpler, many still require committee approval to ensure compliance with by-laws.
Major renovations
Structural changes, bathroom or kitchen plumbing works, flooring replacements, or anything affecting common property usually require formal approval through a General Meeting.

Knowing the category helps determine timelines, documentation, and approval pathways.

The Strata Renovation Approval Process: Step by Step

1. Review Your By-Laws Carefully

Each Body Corporate has its own by-laws. These may outline flooring restrictions, noise limits, waterproofing standards, or contractor requirements. Never assume rules are the same across buildings.

2. Submit a Detailed Application

A strong application reduces delays. Include:

A clear scope of works explaining what will be changed and why
Plans and drawings, especially for structural work
Materials and finishes to be used
Contractor licences and insurance details
Proposed start and completion dates
Acoustic reports for noise-related changes
Confirmation that plumbing or electrical works won’t affect common property

3. Await the Correct Level of Approval

Minor works are often approved by the committee
Major works usually require a special resolution with a two-thirds majority at a General Meeting

This process can take time, so planning ahead is critical.

4. Use Licensed and Insured Contractors

Licensed professionals protect both you and the Body Corporate. Proof of insurance is often mandatory.

5. Communicate and Minimise Disruption

Inform neighbours of scheduled works, follow approved working hours, and keep common areas clean and accessible.

Common Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

Starting work without approval
This can lead to fines, legal action, or orders to reverse completed work.
Ignoring strata by-laws
Even small upgrades can breach building rules.
Poor communication
Transparency with the Body Corporate and neighbours prevents conflict.
Overlooking shared services
Plumbing, wiring, and sound transmission often affect other lots.

Why Choosing the Right Body Corporate Matters

A professional strata manager makes renovating far less stressful. Working with an experienced Body Corporate like Sunstate Strata means you gain:

Clear guidance on renovation approvals
Help interpreting legislation and by-laws
Efficient communication between owners, committees, and contractors
Reduced risk of disputes or compliance issues

For a deeper understanding of how professional strata support benefits property owners, we recommend reading our related guide on Navigating Body Corporate Services: What Every Property Owner Needs to Know. It complements this article and provides valuable insights into strata management responsibilities.

Ready to Renovate the Right Way? Talk to Sunstate Strata

Planning renovations in a strata community doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right advice and support, your project can move forward smoothly while staying fully compliant.

Sunstate Strata supports owners and committees across the Sunshine Coast by simplifying approvals, managing compliance, and protecting community harmony.

Address: PO Box 9195, Pacific Paradise QLD 4564
Phone: +61754505300
Email: admin@sunstatestrata.com.au