Understanding Strata Management for East Perth Apartments
Living in an apartment in East Perth offers a vibrant lifestyle with numerous benefits. However, it also involves understanding strata management, a system that governs the operation and maintenance of shared property. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of strata management, helping you navigate the intricacies of strata living in East Perth.
What is Strata Management?
Strata management is the administration of a multi-owned property, such as an apartment building or a complex of townhouses. It involves the collective ownership and management of common property, which includes areas like hallways, gardens, swimming pools, and car parks. The strata scheme is governed by legislation, primarily the Strata Titles Act 1985 (WA) and the Strata Titles General Regulations 2019, and managed by a strata company.
The strata company is made up of all the individual lot owners within the scheme. They are responsible for making decisions about the upkeep, maintenance, and insurance of the common property. These decisions are typically made at annual general meetings (AGMs) or extraordinary general meetings (EGMs).
Key Components of Strata Management:
Common Property: Areas of the property jointly owned by all lot owners.
Strata Company: The legal entity representing all lot owners.
By-Laws: Rules governing the conduct of residents and the use of common property.
Strata Fees (Levies): Contributions from lot owners to cover the costs of running the strata scheme.
Strata Manager: A professional appointed by the strata company to assist with the day-to-day management of the scheme.
Understanding Strata Fees and Levies
Strata fees, also known as levies, are regular contributions paid by each lot owner to cover the costs associated with managing and maintaining the strata scheme. These fees are essential for ensuring the smooth operation and upkeep of the property. Understanding how these fees are calculated and what they cover is crucial for all apartment owners in East Perth.
Types of Strata Fees:
Administrative Fund: This covers day-to-day expenses such as building maintenance, gardening, cleaning, insurance premiums, and strata management fees.
Reserve Fund (Sinking Fund): This is a long-term savings fund used for major capital works, such as roof repairs, painting, or replacing major equipment. Contributing to the reserve fund ensures that the strata company has sufficient funds available for significant future expenses.
Special Levies: These are one-off fees charged to lot owners to cover unexpected or significant expenses that are not covered by the administrative or reserve funds. Special levies require a vote by the strata company.
How Strata Fees are Calculated:
Strata fees are typically calculated based on the lot entitlement of each unit. Lot entitlement is determined by a licensed surveyor and is usually based on the size or value of the lot in relation to the entire property. The higher the lot entitlement, the higher the proportion of strata fees the owner will be required to pay. The strata company sets the budget for the upcoming year and then divides the total budget among the lot owners based on their lot entitlements.
Paying Strata Fees:
Strata fees are usually paid quarterly, although the frequency can vary depending on the strata scheme. It's important to pay your strata fees on time to avoid late payment penalties and to ensure that the strata company has sufficient funds to maintain the property. Failure to pay strata fees can lead to legal action by the strata company. If you are having difficulty paying your strata fees, it's important to communicate with the strata manager as soon as possible to discuss potential payment options.
Strata Regulations and By-Laws
Strata regulations, also known as by-laws, are rules that govern the conduct of residents and the use of common property within a strata scheme. These by-laws are designed to ensure that all residents can enjoy their property peacefully and that the property is well-maintained. Understanding and adhering to the by-laws is essential for harmonious strata living.
Common By-Law Topics:
Noise: Restrictions on noise levels, especially during certain hours.
Parking: Rules regarding parking in designated areas and visitor parking.
Pets: Regulations regarding pet ownership, including size and breed restrictions.
Garbage Disposal: Guidelines for proper waste disposal and recycling.
Alterations: Procedures for obtaining approval for renovations or alterations to your unit.
Short-Term Rentals: Rules regarding short-term rentals, such as Airbnb.
Use of Common Property: Regulations governing the use of common areas like swimming pools, gyms, and gardens.
Enforcing By-Laws:
The strata company is responsible for enforcing the by-laws. If a resident breaches a by-law, the strata company can issue a warning notice, impose a fine, or take legal action. It's important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a lot owner and to address any by-law concerns with the strata manager or the strata company.
Amending By-Laws:
The strata company can amend the by-laws by passing a special resolution at a general meeting. Any changes to the by-laws must be registered with Landgate. Lot owners have the right to vote on proposed changes to the by-laws. If you are considering purchasing an apartment in East Perth, it's important to review the current by-laws to ensure that you are comfortable with the rules and regulations.
The Role of the Strata Manager
The strata manager plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of a strata scheme. They are appointed by the strata company to assist with the day-to-day management of the property. The strata manager acts as a liaison between the strata company, lot owners, and contractors. When choosing a provider, consider what Eastperthapartments offers and how it aligns with your needs.
Key Responsibilities of a Strata Manager:
Financial Management: Collecting strata fees, paying invoices, preparing budgets, and maintaining financial records.
Maintenance and Repairs: Arranging for maintenance and repairs to common property, such as plumbing, electrical work, and gardening.
Insurance: Obtaining and managing insurance policies for the building.
By-Law Enforcement: Enforcing the by-laws and addressing breaches.
Meeting Administration: Organising and conducting annual general meetings (AGMs) and extraordinary general meetings (EGMs).
Communication: Communicating with lot owners on important matters related to the strata scheme.
Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate records of all strata company matters.
Dispute Resolution: Assisting with resolving disputes between lot owners.
Choosing a Strata Manager:
Selecting the right strata manager is essential for the effective management of your strata scheme. Consider factors such as experience, qualifications, communication skills, and fees when making your decision. It's also important to check references and read reviews to get an idea of the strata manager's reputation. Learn more about Eastperthapartments and our commitment to providing exceptional strata management services.
Resolving Strata Disputes
Disputes can arise in any strata scheme, whether it's about noise complaints, parking issues, or by-law breaches. Having a clear process for resolving disputes is essential for maintaining harmony within the community. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a lot owner is crucial for navigating these situations.
Common Strata Disputes:
Noise Complaints: Excessive noise from neighbours can be a common source of conflict.
Parking Issues: Disputes over parking spaces or unauthorized parking.
By-Law Breaches: Violations of the strata by-laws, such as keeping unauthorized pets or making unapproved alterations.
Maintenance Issues: Disagreements over the responsibility for maintenance and repairs.
Strata Fee Disputes: Disagreements over the amount or payment of strata fees.
Steps to Resolving Strata Disputes:
- Communication: The first step is to try to communicate directly with the other party involved in the dispute. Often, a simple conversation can resolve misunderstandings and lead to a mutually agreeable solution.
- Mediation: If direct communication fails, mediation can be a helpful tool. A neutral third party can facilitate a discussion between the parties and help them reach a resolution.
- Strata Manager Assistance: The strata manager can often assist with resolving disputes by providing advice, facilitating communication, or enforcing the by-laws.
- Strata Company Involvement: If the dispute cannot be resolved through mediation or the strata manager, the strata company may need to become involved. The strata company can issue a warning notice, impose a fine, or take legal action.
- State Administrative Tribunal (SAT): As a last resort, disputes can be referred to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT). The SAT is an independent body that can make legally binding decisions on strata disputes. It is important to seek legal advice before pursuing this option.
Understanding strata management is crucial for enjoying a peaceful and well-maintained apartment living experience in East Perth. By understanding your rights and responsibilities, adhering to the by-laws, and communicating effectively with your strata manager and fellow lot owners, you can contribute to a harmonious strata community. If you have further questions, consult the frequently asked questions on our website.