Owners Rights & Obligations

At a Glance Many apartment owners install security or screen doors for ventilation, security or pet containment without realising they may compromise...

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

At a Glance This article explains: NSW regulations for apartment fire doors Who is responsible for maintenance and repairs What owners and residents...

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

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....

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...

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

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

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

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...

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...

Having an automatic fire alarm system installed at your strata property might seem like a no-brainer to ensure everyone’s safety, but they can have...

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

As can happen in any shared living environment, there is always the risk of someone’s actions becoming a problem for another resident in a strata...

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...

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...

Under the terms of The Strata Schemes Freehold Development Act 1973, any wall (including the door and door locks) between a unit and its balcony is...

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

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

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

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

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...

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...

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

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...

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

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...

Strata insurance is one of the highest expenses for any owners’ corporation or body corporate. The good news?   You may be able to reduce your...

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...

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,...

Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. We’ve got over 29 million furry companions as a nation, with about 61% of all...

“Strata Hub” is a NSW Government initiative created to increase transparency, provide better regulation, and improve engagement for all...

Industry response to article titled “Power Struggle: Doctor forced to sell electric car after his building removed the power point” published by...

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...

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...

Our balconies are where we go to soak up the sunshine and take in the view – but they can also be a source of angst for a surprisingly high number...

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...

Most property needs maintenance as time goes on, whether we’re talking about foyers, hallways, staircases, elevators, roofs or swimming pools....

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...

Did you know that Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world? According to the RSPCA, Australians own over 29 million pets...

If you are the owner or occupier of a lot on a strata property, you may have considered leasing out your property while you are away. Also known as...

As apartment and strata living becomes more common, waste disposal has become more of an issue. Nobody enjoys having, seeing or smelling rubbish near...

As Australia’s population continues to grow at a staggering rate, more and more people are choosing to live in strata properties in our capital...

Reading the fine print on insurance is a task that no one enjoys. However, it is crucial to pay attention to the details of your insurance,...

Over the past year, the Australian Federal Police have reported an increase in identity fraud, credit card fraud and other such scams. In fact,...

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...

Though there are many great things to love about Sydney, a general lack of parking spaces isn’t one of them. The busier a street is, the more...

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...

Though the weather in Sydney is often sunny, warm, and the envy of others, this can change at the drop of a hat. A cloudless sky can quickly fill...

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...

The Australian National Broadband Network (NBN) is being rolled out, promising to finally get Australia on par with other developed countries when it...

A simple fact of strata living is that each strata’s levies are not the same. These mandatory body corporate fees can vary enormously depending on...

Strata living has many upsides, including shared costs, a lot of ways you can engage in decision-making processes and, ideally, a friendly community...

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...

Minor and major renovations in your apartment or townhouse do require permission from your owners corporation, however anything classed as...

It can be upsetting when your strata neighbour is walking through their apartment wearing what seem to be wooden clogs, but what if you’re the one...

It makes a lot of sense to install solar panels wherever possible to make the most of free energy from the sun and cut down on electricity costs, but...

Tesla fans, listen up! If your strata scheme is located within the City of Sydney, you could now register for a free assessment and roadmap for...

You may have heard that Willoughby Council now has agreements to issue parking fines on some of its local strata properties, and that the City of...

As can happen in any shared living environment, there is always the risk of someone’s actions becoming a problem for another resident in a strata...

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...

Have you been frustrated by the parking situation within your Sydney strata? That’s probably fair enough, as city workers commonly take advantage...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how owners can deal with disposed goods on common property. In...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the changes have affected strata insurance. This is one of...

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...

A strata group is working with the National Broadband Network (NBN) to ensure that apartment owners have the chance to hook up to fast internet....

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...

While noise nuisance is a major problem for residents around Australia, the issue can be even more troublesome for apartment and unit residents. With...

When dealing with property emergencies within strata schemes, there is a standard procedure to follow. If you discover a leak in or around your...

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 means having different people from different backgrounds trying to live harmoniously together under one shared roof. With a...

What is this NBN thing all about, and is it worth worrying about? Here are some quick facts for you to be aware of if your building has been...

Gas supply seldom fails and the cause is most likely to be a fault with the appliance you are using. Gas appliances within a unit are the...

If water suddenly starts running out of a wall, ceiling or floor it obviously should not be ignored and you should contact your strata manager...

The ceiling is generally considered common property and the Owners Corporation’s responsibility to repair. The lot owner is responsible however...

Under the terms of The Strata Schemes Freehold Development Act 1973, any wall (including the door and door locks) between a unit and its balcony is...

The Owners Corporation is responsible for the repair as the ducting encloses structural cubic space. Structural cubic space is automatically common...

You should contact your Strata Manager who can inform you whether the garage door is Strata or Individual Owner responsibility. If the garage door...

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...

Each property will have a varied set of By-Laws for their property depending on the make up of the scheme. They may also have special By-Laws that...

As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, the demand for EV charging infrastructure is rising. For strata buildings, offering EV...

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...

Group CEO, Michael Vumbaca, was invited on Ticker TV AU to discuss his business ventures within the Strata Industry. Hosted by Mike Loder, Michael...

The mention of special levies is enough to worry many strata owners, but rest assured these levies are only put in place when the vast majority of...

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...

COVID-19 is putting a hold on many normal activities at the moment, and many NSW strata residents might be wondering whether strata repairs, cleaning...

We know that the Novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19, has had a financial impact on many Australians, including those who live in New South Wales’ many...

Selling any property can be a daunting and complex process, but selling property in a strata scheme can be quite different from selling regular...

Jamesons Strata Management has established two new branches in Hornsby and Wollongong to further meet growing demand for quality strata services...

In our video series Michael Vumbaca, General Manager at Jamesons Strata discusses how the new laws address gifts and benefits. The new...

2016 and 2017 have seen a number of developments and growth in strata buildings on Sydney’s north shore. This is in line with the trend for...

The date has finally been confirmed for the reform of NSW strata laws! The NSW Parliament passed over 90 changes to the Strata Management Act last...

Much-heralded strata reform affecting NSW apartments has been delayed to allow further consultation with interested parties. The raft of changes...

There’s no doubt about it, apartments are at the forefront of Australia’s current boom in high-density living. This year’s Australian Bureau of...

Following on from our recent articles about changes to the Home Building Act, the second and final round of changes are scheduled to kick off on 1...

The changes to the home building act originally scheduled for 1 December 2014 have been officially scheduled for release in two stages in 2015. 15...

Once again we got together this year as a company to review the year that was, and all that we need to work on in 2015 and beyond. We surveyed some...

This summer, like all those before it, we see thousands of Australians of all ages and with varying degrees of skill taking to the water to stay cool...

2014 saw a number of key personnel changes here at Jamesons. We were delighted to welcome Andrew Kelty to our business earlier this year. Andrew...

It’s been a long time coming, but we are very proud to announce we have opened our doors in the Eastern Suburbs. Our new offices are situated at 12...

While it is not clear exactly when changes to the Home Building Act (HBA) will be implemented, it is clear that they will have a dramatic effect on...

It really makes you wonder what the world is coming to when people start getting shot at Strata Meetings. This event has shocked me personally and I...

Thanks to our friends at Mills Oakley for supplying the below article. It certainly highlights the importance of proper meeting procedures at all...

It is essential that you contact your strata manager if you are planning to renovate your...

Check first of all to ascertain that it is not a general power failure in the street. If it is a general failure please call the Energy Australia...

Water supply failure can occur for several reasons. For example, Sydney Water might be carrying out works on the street pipes and has temporarily...

Call your strata manager to have them contact the lift company, or alternatively the lift maintenance company whose name is generally located on a...

Make sure that your door remote controller is working and that the batteries are not old and flat by checking it against another resident’s...

The first sign of a problem will frequently be that, when flushing the toilet, the water backs up to the rim of the bowl and does not drain away. A...

There are a number of items that are excluded by the Owners Corporation, and are the responsibility of the Lot owner(s) to repair and maintain....

To be entitled to vote at a general meeting you must be “financial.” This means that all levies must be paid up till the date of the...

The following persons are eligible for nomination to the Executive Committee: An individual who is an owner. A company nominee of a corporation that...

A Special Levy is often raised when there aren’t sufficient funds in either the Administrative Fund or the Sinking Fund to pay for an...

If the main entry door to your unit or a window is damaged by a break and entry or is vandalised to the extent that the security of your unit is...

Article written by Mills Oakley Lawyers: On 18 September 2013, the Strata Schemes Management Amendment (Child Windows Safety) Bill (“the...

To request a section 109 certificate prior to purchase please click HERE and our team will contact you to discuss. IMPORTANT NOTE: COSTS The costs...

Are Your Glazing Contractors Qualified? Most glazing problems occur right from the outset. They generally stem from the inappropriate select ion and...

Energy bills are often complex. In most cases, without a solid background in energy, it can be difficult to understand what you are actually being...

In Owners of Strata Plan 64282 v Patelis, the Supreme Court of New South Wales granted an Owners Corporation an urgent injunction preventing the...

As we edge closer to “E-Day” – the looming September election, a number of debates are heating up the political landscape. The price on carbon...

With the continued rise in energy costs impacting commercial buildings across Australia, investing in energy efficiency makes more sense than ever....

Incorrect energy bills cost Australian businesses thousands Energy Action leading the charge to help businesses understand energy costs With all...

On 19 July 2013, Justice Pembroke of the Supreme Court of NSW delivered a judgment in the case of The Owners – Strata Plan No. 70798 v Bakkante...

Ever left Christmas shopping until the last minute – what happens? As consumers edge closer to Christmas Eve their purchase options become...