Renovating in Strata? What You Need to Know First
Thinking about renovating your strata property? It’s exciting, but before you break out the paintbrush, it’s important to know the rules. Strata properties have specific laws that govern renovations—get it wrong, and you might have to undo the work or face penalties.
Here’s what you need to know before starting any renovation:
The 3 Types of Renovations:
- Cosmetic Work: No approval needed. These are minor changes like painting internal walls, changing blinds, or installing picture hooks.
- Minor Renovations: Requires approval from the strata committee. These include things like installing new flooring, upgrading a kitchen (without changing structural elements), or adding air-conditioning.
- Major Renovations: Requires full approval from the Owners Corporation at a general meeting. These include renovations that affect structural walls, waterproofing in bathrooms, or changes to common property.
Why Approval Matters
Because the building’s structure is shared by all owners, any work that affects common property or safety must be approved. Skipping this step can lead to costly problems, including:
- Orders to reverse the work at your own expense
- Legal action
- Friction with neighbours and the committee
Tips Before You Start
- Check your by-laws—some buildings have additional renovation rules.
- Speak to your strata manager before starting.
- Always use licensed tradespeople with insurance.
- Respect noise restrictions, especially on weekends.
- Dispose of renovation waste responsibly—don’t use the building’s bins!
Renovating in strata isn’t impossible—it just takes planning, approvals, and good communication. Need help navigating the process? Strata Revolution is here to guide you every step of the way.
By Martin Rolon, Principal – Strata Revolution