Introduction to Strata

At a Glance Strata is a form of property ownership where you own your individual lot, such as an apartment or townhouse, and share ownership of...

At a Glance From 1 October 2026, new and returning strata committee members in NSW must complete an introductory training course within 3 months of...

At a Glance Changing strata managers in NSW involves checking your current management agreement, gathering proposals, and voting on the appointment...

At a Glance Strata management fees are what an owners corporation pays its managing agent. They sit as one line inside the scheme’s levy...

At a Glance Shweta Ranawat joined Jamesons after eight years at another strata firm and has spent six years building her career here, now General...

At a glance AFSS requirements have become stricter, with tighter deadlines, clearer responsibilities and more robust record-keeping. These updates...

At a glance Strata fees and levies are often confused, but they serve different purposes. This article breaks down how each one works, what they...

Not happy with your current strata manager, but unsure if you’re allowed to make a change? You’re not alone. Two of the most common questions...

Managing a strata building is no small task, and having the right strata manager makes all the difference. But what happens when the service you’re...

In a strata community, shared spaces and responsibilities go hand in hand. To ensure everything runs smoothly, each building is governed by a set of...

Managing a strata property in NSW involves more than just paying levies or organising repairs. It requires knowledge of legislation, strong financial...

When the Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down this year’s budget in mid-May 2024 it looked like not much change for apartment owners at...

Appointment of New General Manager for Jamesons Southern – Talia Smith Jamesons are pleased to announce the appointment of Talia Smith as the...

An Overview of the Strata Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 On 10th October 2023, the Strata Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 was introduced, proposing...

When living in a strata property, one of the most common issues that can arise is that of plumbing. If your plumbing goes awry, who is responsible...

When buying a strata property, there are many important things to consider, not the least of which is strata insurance. As many building defects...

Developed almost 60 years ago, Strata Title is an Australian creation which is now used by countries all around the world. In NSW, the NSW...

Having a strata manager can make your life much easier – but what do they do? A strata manager can function as a first point of contact for repairs...

Strata developments come with a lot of moving parts, making it very hard to keep track of all the different issues to keep on top of, especially if...

Making sense of what’s covered when it comes to insurance for your strata property can be confusing – especially when you factor in other...

If you’re living in a strata building, it’s important to know who’s responsible for the maintenance costs in and around your apartment or lot....

The complexities of common property boundaries mean that as strata managers, we’re asked a lot of reasonable questions about who does what (and who...

It’s a commonly asked question for owners within strata committees; how often are strata meetings held? Here’s a rundown on the required and...

Did you know that the strata title is actually an Australian invention? This modern method of co-ownership is used all over the world, but the...

Your strata meetings are your opportunity to make your voice heard and have your say on important decisions that will affect your lifestyle and...

By-laws exist in every strata scheme, but what purpose do they serve? They are policies that define the rules for harmonious living within a strata...

For some new owners within a strata scheme, the idea of attending your first Annual General Meeting can seem about as appealing as pulling teeth....

Brand new to the world of strata? Then this information is for you. Whether you’re considering buying an apartment that is part of a strata scheme...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses what you need to know about insurance in strata....

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses the changes that have been made to the general...

You’ve probably heard about how important it is that strata owners attend their Annual General Meeting (AGM). That’s because your AGM is used to...

If you’re confused about strata title management, rest assured you’re not alone. With many variations in strata law terminology across the...

As an investor in a strata complex, you automatically become a member of the owners corporation (also called the body corporate). This means you...

1. The strata manager decides how much I pay in levies each year and how much they will be paid for proving their service. Levies are decided at the...

A poll vote is a vote cast using the value of unit entitlement allocated to each specific lot. This method of vote is used for passing a special...

AGM & EGM: A quorum for a general meeting is determined by one quarter or more of the people entitled to vote, being present in person or by...

Only Executive Committee members can vote on agenda items at an Executive Committee meeting. The exception would be if an owner or company nominee of...

At a Glance Strata is a form of property ownership where you own your individual lot, such as an apartment or townhouse, and share ownership of...

At a Glance Changing strata managers in NSW involves checking your current management agreement, gathering proposals, and voting on the appointment...

At a Glance Strata management fees are what an owners corporation pays its managing agent. They sit as one line inside the scheme’s levy...

At a Glance If you live in a master-planned estate or gated community, your fence question almost always comes down to one thing: is the fence on...

At a Glance If you live in a townhouse, villa or apartment scheme, your fence question almost always comes down to one thing: what does the fence...

At a Glance The 2026 Australian Census will take place on 11 August 2026, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) working closely with strata...

At a Glance In NSW strata schemes, responsibility for repairs and maintenance depends on whether the issue relates to common property or a private...

At a Glance The 2026 Australian Census will take place on 11 August 2026, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) working closely with strata...

At a Glance A leaking balcony in a strata building is commonly caused by failed waterproofing, cracked tiles, poor drainage or building movement. In...

If you’ve been looking at your backyard and thinking it needs some work, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the boundaries and by-laws of...

At a Glance This guide explains who is responsible for plumbing repairs in a NSW strata property. We clarify when the Owners Corporation handles...

Not happy with your current strata manager, but unsure if you’re allowed to make a change? You’re not alone. Two of the most common questions...

Managing a strata building is no small task, and having the right strata manager makes all the difference. But what happens when the service you’re...

Strata Levies: What You’re Paying For, How They’re Set, and Why They May Go Up Strata levies are one of the most frequently misunderstood parts...

In a strata community, shared spaces and responsibilities go hand in hand. To ensure everything runs smoothly, each building is governed by a set of...

Managing a strata property in NSW involves more than just paying levies or organising repairs. It requires knowledge of legislation, strong financial...

Strata living offers many benefits; shared amenities, collective decision-making, and often, a strong sense of community. But all of this depends on...

At a Glance In NSW, strata renovations must comply with the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, your scheme’s by-laws, and the 2025 reforms....

Sustainability is becoming an essential part of how we live, work, and manage our properties. In NSW, strata schemes play a crucial role in reducing...

The Reserve Bank of Australia has cut the cash rate by 0.25 basis points  to 4.10%, a shift that could ease financial pressure for many apartment...

When it comes to understanding fence responsibilities in strata schemes, the topic can quickly become confusing. In strata living, boundaries can...

Smoke alarms are an essential safety feature in any building, but when it comes to strata properties, there can be confusion about who is responsible...

New South Wales will implement significant changes to fire safety regulations through the Environmental Planning and Assessment (Development...

As temperatures rise across NSW, many apartment residents are considering air conditioning solutions to stay cool. But when you live in a...

At a glance The 2024 Amendment Bill outlines a series of proposed changes expected to roll out across 2025. These updates aim to strengthen consumer...

At Jamesons Strata Management, we’re committed to ensuring that your strata property is safe, comfortable, and well-managed. One key aspect of this...

With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, many apartment owners and investors are exploring new income opportunities. One popular option is Airbnb...

When living in a strata property, plumbing issues can be both frustrating and complex. Given that plumbing systems often run through multiple units...

When there’s a disagreement in your strata scheme, whether between lot owners and the strata management, corporate body or owners corporations, and...

At this time of year, you might have identified some cold draughts or areas of water damage that need to be fixed, or you may be thinking about ways...

When you are looking to either buy or refinance a property, which includes an apartment, townhouse or villa that is part of a strata complex, you are...

Maintaining a healthy living environment in your strata scheme is crucial for the well-being of residents and the structural integrity of the...

Strata managers are here to make strata living easy and enjoyable, but a strata manager who isn’t performing their job effectively can actively...

Mixed use developments, such as those mixing retail and residential, are popular throughout NSW. But some of the terms when buying or investing in a...

If you lifted the roof on your strata property and peered inside, you’d see that the property and the lives of its residents are completely unique....

A modern approach to strata management can make life far easier and smoother for strata owners. So how do you know if your current strata manager is...

The majority of strata schemes in NSW will have their finances audited by an independent auditor. This process can help to ensure the strata scheme...

If you’ve just moved into your new apartment or strata property in NSW, you might be wondering exactly how this whole strata thing works. What...

Is property management the same as strata management? Well some say we are all the same as we work in the property industry, but at times we should...

Your strata scheme has the option of using a strata manager in NSW, but how do you know if this will provide genuine value? The right professional...

Strata schemes in NSW can either be self-managed or managed by a licensed strata manager. The majority of schemes choose to work with a licensed...

With recent heavy rainfall, leaks have been a recurring frustration experienced by many of our clients. In such times, it is important to know, who...

Strata management fees may feel like just another cost to strata owners. But what exactly is covered in this cost? While the specifics vary between...

Sick of leaves, nuts or fruit falling on your roof?Worried about a large or dangerous tree hanging over your property?Perhaps you’re simply wanting...

When it comes to strata living, the common seal isn’t one of those adorable animals that you might see at a zoo. Instead, it’s a type of rubber...

It’s not rocket science, but it’s worth repeating nonetheless: drying your clothes out on a clotheshorse on your balcony is better for the...

It’s one of the most frustrating parts about moving from one rental property to another – organising the bond for a new place when you haven’t...

Strata levies can often be a hidden sting for new owners, an unexpected second hangover after the elation of finally becoming an owner (the first...

Generally speaking, the owner of a property is responsible for all maintenance and repairs within their lot and whatever isn’t common property....

Naturally, some needs and expectations a property owner has of their strata manager can be negotiated on an individual basis. There are some basic...

Commercial strata schemes may come in many different forms, including office buildings, factories, shopping centres, car parks, or combinations of...

On 5th June 2018, the NSW state government revealed a new set of legislations that would have big impacts on strata inhabitants and short-stay...

In New South Wales, all meetings are required to have a quorum present. Whether the meeting is for an Annual General Meeting (AGM), Strata Committee...

Choosing a strata manager with local expertise guarantees they’ll be trained and experienced to handle all your unique requirements and issues that...

Is your strata manager not meeting the mark? Whether it’s an issue of inadequate maintenance, fund deficits, general disorganisation or anything...

Strata managing agents are responsible for the day-to-day administration and management of matters within your strata scheme. Your strata manager...

Whether you’re moving overseas for six months or have just purchased an investment strata property, leasing out your unit can bring in welcome...

Strata manager and property manager: they’re the same thing, right? Not so much. Although they’re both useful within the real estate industry, a...

If you’re living in strata, it’s important to know exactly what you and your strata scheme are each responsible for when it comes to maintenance...

Ever wonder what a strata manager does? You’re not alone. There are many people who are new to living in strata schemes and feel unsure of what the...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the role of a strata manager has changed. At Jamesons, we...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the new laws address short term letting. With the growing...

Our strata managers in Sydney are sometimes asked about letting out strata units on short-term sites such as Airbnb and Stayz, and it’s difficult...

If you lived in a building that you owned completely, you’d have to pay for all major works and renovations that the property needed. When you live...

Traditionally it’s been a challenge finding the right strata management agency in regional and rural areas of Australia. Even if you can find...

If you rent or own an apartment, office or commercial space, you deserve to know that the building complex is properly being maintained and managed....

Fencing is one of the most common sources of friction between neighbours, and this is just as likely within a strata scheme as it is between house...

The best-run strata schemes generally depend on the expertise and sound judgement of experienced, professional strata managers. It’s not uncommon...

There are significant differences between strata managers and property managers which are often confused by lot owners and residents in strata titled...

Most apartment blocks have strata managers. These are fully licensed professionals trained to deal with the everyday needs of a strata scheme. A...

Many think that these two terms mean the same thing, but they actually don’t. Although constantly used interchangeably by some people, these two...

In strata title management, owners, whether these are investors or occupiers, have the option to self-manage or hire a strata manager to do all the...

Choosing an effective strata manager is key to successful and satisfying strata living. However, many property owners or body corporate often do not...

Due to some interface upgrades the roll out of our much anticipated invoice approval system and document management system has been slightly delayed....

At a Glance Yes, an Owners Corporation can be sued in NSW — it is a legal entity with statutory responsibilities. The Strata Committee acts on...

At a glance New 2025 standards give Building Managers clearer responsibilities, stronger accountability and more transparent contract expectations....

In a strata community, shared spaces and responsibilities go hand in hand. To ensure everything runs smoothly, each building is governed by a set of...

Managing a strata property in NSW involves more than just paying levies or organising repairs. It requires knowledge of legislation, strong financial...

Strata living offers many benefits; shared amenities, collective decision-making, and often, a strong sense of community. But all of this depends on...

Mixed use developments, such as those mixing retail and residential, are popular throughout NSW. But some of the terms when buying or investing in a...

The majority of strata schemes in NSW will have their finances audited by an independent auditor. This process can help to ensure the strata scheme...

It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest NSW strata community management legislation, as this can affect everything from day-to-day strata...

Sinking fund, special levies, capital works fund and the administrative fund – it can feel like there are so many names and payment types to get...

Effective management is the cornerstone of a successful strata scheme. This is because by its very nature, strata living is all about using shared...

One of the key questions we’ve been fielding about COVID-19 and strata properties in Sydney is what to do if a resident, or multiple residents, has...

Your owners corporation is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of all common property within your strata scheme; this can include everything...

Since COVID-19 spread across the world, there’s been one word used often to sum up the situation: unprecedented. It’s therefore not surprising...

COVID-19 has thrown up some unique situations, and with many people out of a job or underemployed there may well be strata owners corporations that...

Your strata scheme in NSW may be lucky enough to have a shared pool, gym, tennis courts, office spaces, meeting rooms or other facilities. You might...

As we know, COVID-19 has been placing financial pressure on many property residents, owners and tenants. We’re aware that many owners corporations...

Nowadays, when we hear ‘asbestos’, we immediately think of the risk it poses to human health. Up until the 1980s, however, asbestos was...

It’s one of the most annoying things about living in a vibrant, lively city like Sydney: graffiti. Essentially, graffiti refers to drawings or...

Last year’s Christmas Eve unfortunately wasn’t a time of giddy anticipation for the residents of Sydney’s Opal Tower. After hearing loud bangs,...

All types of walls can have cracks in them and, often, they are a mere aesthetic problem rather than a danger to the structural integrity of a...

In June 2017, a fridge caught on fire in the Grenfell Tower, a 24-storey residential tower block in London, England. Though firefighters were soon on...

Fire safety is a crucial part of protecting people, property and the environment from severe harm or damage. There are many regulations that need to...

Also known as an body corporate executive committee, a strata committee is responsible for the daily operation of your strata scheme. In New South...

Strata schemes can come in all shapes and sizes; they may include as few as two lots, or as many as several hundred. While many aspects of managing...

In New South Wales, all meetings are required to have a quorum present. Whether the meeting is for an Annual General Meeting (AGM), Strata Committee...

In New South Wales, the owners corporation is comprised of all the owners within the strata scheme, and is responsible for a number of matters...

It’s a great thing if you’re keen to get involved in the running of your strata scheme. As part of the owners corporation committee, you are...

It’s estimated that by 2040, the number of Sydney residents living in strata will have doubled from today’s figure of 25% to around 50% of the...

Wollongong has to be one of Australia’s best locations for strata living – after all, its great weather, café scene and expanses of beach lend...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses what can be done to retrieve unpaid strata levies. Levy...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses the changes that have been made to the strata by-laws. Each...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the role of tenants has evolved. The new legislation has...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses the how the new laws address development defects. ...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses the changes that have been made to the new strata...

Many of the new NSW strata reforms introduced on 30 November 2016 are optional for existing strata schemes, but there are more considerations in...

Unfortunately, there are occasionally cases of people and groups looking after their own interests rather than working within the fair and democratic...

The new NSW strata law reforms are much anticipated and will be crucial in developing fairer, more community-minded strata buildings and titles in...

By Serafina Froio – Strata Project Management The acoustic performance of a strata building is important and can be easily eroded though...

There are few issues more contentious for unit and apartment dwellers in NSW than parking, but help is on the way in the form of tighter parking...

Two long-anticipated strata reform bills have just been introduced to NSW Parliament, aiming to improve strata living and reduce red tape for strata...

This article was contributed by Serafina Froio from Strata Project Management Not the Channel Nine television show. This article is about how to...

The NSW Government is in the process of finalising new strata laws, with the overall aim of creating a more modern framework for people living in...

Nothing lasts forever, and nothing stays unspoiled for years. Even a strata property will deteriorate over time and if the necessary measures are not...

Noise is an inevitable part of everyone’s life. It is a nuisance that everyone faces throughout their day and is found everywhere – in the...

Our General Manager Michael Vumbaca was quoted in the Financial Review recently after being asked to provide an opinion on behalf of the Strata...

An Owners Corporation may, by special resolution, grant an Exclusive Use or Special Privilege By-Law. An Exclusive Use By-Law gives the lot the right...

This method of voting is used when the number nominated for the Executive Committee exceeds the number determined at an AGM. The vote is normally...

At a Glance From 1 October 2026, new and returning strata committee members in NSW must complete an introductory training course within 3 months of...

At a Glance NSW is partway through the biggest modernisation of strata law in a decade, with reforms to the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 rolled...

Big changes are coming to NSW strata laws from 1 July 2025. Learn what they mean for your building—from renovations and accessibility to committee...

At a Glance A Section 184 Certificate is one of the most important documents to review before buying a strata property in NSW. It reveals the...

At a Glance The capital works fund (previously called the sinking fund) is your strata scheme’s savings plan for major future repairs and...

At a Glance A new wave of NSW strata reforms takes effect on 1 April 2026 – the third and final stage of a major overhaul of strata...

At a Glance This guide explains what a Section 184 Certificate includes, why it’s essential when buying or selling a strata property in NSW, who...

Big changes are coming to NSW strata laws from 1 July 2025. Learn what they mean for your building—from renovations and accessibility to committee...

At a glance New 2025 standards give Building Managers clearer responsibilities, stronger accountability and more transparent contract expectations....

At a glance NSW’s October 2025 strata reforms focus on improving governance, strengthening financial oversight and tightening compliance standards....

At a glance AFSS requirements have become stricter, with tighter deadlines, clearer responsibilities and more robust record-keeping. These updates...

Neighbour noise? Parking problems? Learn the most common strata disputes in NSW and how to resolve them — calmly, quickly, and in line with the...

If your strata manager isn’t meeting expectations, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck. Whether it’s communication issues, unkept...

Strata Levies: What You’re Paying For, How They’re Set, and Why They May Go Up Strata levies are one of the most frequently misunderstood parts...

The NSW Government has introduced significant changes to residential tenancy laws that affect both landlords and tenants. These changes are part of...

Big changes are coming to NSW strata laws from 1 July 2025. Learn what they mean for your building—from renovations and accessibility to committee...

Thinking of adding a furry (or feathered) friend to your home? You’re not alone. With more people choosing apartment and strata living, the desire...

In a strata community, shared spaces and responsibilities go hand in hand. To ensure everything runs smoothly, each building is governed by a set of...

Strata living offers many benefits; shared amenities, collective decision-making, and often, a strong sense of community. But all of this depends on...

At a glance The NSW Government has proposed amendments to the Strata Schemes Management Act in February 2025, focusing on clearer governance rules,...

When it comes to understanding fence responsibilities in strata schemes, the topic can quickly become confusing. In strata living, boundaries can...

New South Wales will implement significant changes to fire safety regulations through the Environmental Planning and Assessment (Development...

As temperatures rise across NSW, many apartment residents are considering air conditioning solutions to stay cool. But when you live in a...

At a glance The 2024 Amendment Bill outlines a series of proposed changes expected to roll out across 2025. These updates aim to strengthen consumer...

At Jamesons Strata Management, we’re committed to ensuring that your strata property is safe, comfortable, and well-managed. One key aspect of this...

When living in a strata property, plumbing issues can be both frustrating and complex. Given that plumbing systems often run through multiple units...

When there’s a disagreement in your strata scheme, whether between lot owners and the strata management, corporate body or owners corporations, and...

When you are looking to either buy or refinance a property, which includes an apartment, townhouse or villa that is part of a strata complex, you are...

Maintaining a healthy living environment in your strata scheme is crucial for the well-being of residents and the structural integrity of the...

When the Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down this year’s budget in mid-May 2024 it looked like not much change for apartment owners at...

If you have anything to do with strata schemes in NSW, you’ll know the term ‘special levy’ pops up from time to time.  In fact,...

As you are likely aware, the NSW Government has created legislation associated with certain major works. The Design & Building Practitioners Act...

In an initiative to further protect consumers, the NSW Government has created new legislation associated with major works. The Design & Building...

As defined by Fair Trading NSW, community, precinct and neighbourhood schemes are “forms of land title that help in subdividing and developing land...

Strata managers are here to make strata living easy and enjoyable, but a strata manager who isn’t performing their job effectively can actively...

The majority of strata schemes in NSW will have their finances audited by an independent auditor. This process can help to ensure the strata scheme...

If you’re living in a strata property or are planning to, you’ll likely be aware that there are strata by-laws in place that shape the way of...

With recent heavy rainfall, leaks have been a recurring frustration experienced by many of our clients. In such times, it is important to know, who...

When it comes to strata living, the common seal isn’t one of those adorable animals that you might see at a zoo. Instead, it’s a type of rubber...

As a strata committee member, one of your tasks is to stay on top of new legislation and regulations to make sure that your strata scheme complies...

Strata levies can often be a hidden sting for new owners, an unexpected second hangover after the elation of finally becoming an owner (the first...

In New South Wales, all meetings are required to have a quorum present. Whether the meeting is for an Annual General Meeting (AGM), Strata Committee...

You probably hear a lot about strata rights of owners and responsibilities within a strata scheme, but are things different for a tenant who rents a...

A duplex or strata scheme with only two lots can be an ideal living situation for many people. This type of set-up often provides an easy lifestyle...

The structure of a strata scheme uses a number of collective and democratic methods for effective community living, and one of these is the...

Back in 2015, we outlined that there may be new changes to the New South Wales strata laws regarding the definition and addressing of nuisance smoke....

If you’re living in strata, it’s important to know exactly what you and your strata scheme are each responsible for when it comes to maintenance...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the new laws affect smoking in strata. It’s very...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the new laws affect parking in strata. Parking in a strata...

The new NSW strata law reforms brought in on 30 November last year have brought in a number of new regulations that affect developers who are...

The new NSW strata law reforms on 30 November 2016 have brought in over 90 changes to the existing laws. Perhaps the most controversial of the NSW...

If you lived in a building that you owned completely, you’d have to pay for all major works and renovations that the property needed. When you live...

Many of the existing NSW strata laws simply don’t reflect our modern way of living and little wonder – they’ve been in place for around 55...

Fencing is one of the most common sources of friction between neighbours, and this is just as likely within a strata scheme as it is between house...

Nuisance cigarette smoke is among the items targeted in the major reform of NSW strata management laws currently in process. This is the most...

The whole area of strata ownership and management can be a tricky one. Many home buyers and investors are confused about what a strata scheme is, and...

Investors or those buying into a strata complex often worry about the financial health of their body corporate or owners’ corporation. After all,...

Living in a strata scheme comes with its own set of challenges, and rules to follow. Each strata scheme will have its own by-laws which are designed...

When it comes to kitchen renovations, living in a strata unit or apartment can be complicated. In some strata complexes, the body corporate will...

Government strata legislation has made it compulsory for windows that are two metres or more above the ground to have safety devices fitted to...

The state government has been forced to extend the deadline of the new legislation that stops people selling homes with pools without their...

A peace of lifestyle luxury, now with a touch of compliance. New legislation for the sale or lease of a property with a pool will apply from 29 April...

Window legislation laws have changed so here are some important things you need to know to be prepared!  Changes in both Volumes of BCA...

Proxy forms for a range of meetings and scheme types are available to download from the Jamesons Document Bank. For informatin on how to fill out...