FAQ CATEGORY 30/06/22
How many votes are required to pass a motion?
Most motions at meetings require a majority vote which is known as a general resolution.
For a general resolution each owner has one vote per property they own. Over 50% of people must vote for the motion for it to pass. These votes are also called a ‘simple majority vote’ and do not use unit entitlement.
A special resolution is a vote by unit entitlement. For it to pass, no more than 25% of the votes can be against the proposal. You’ll most likely only see a special resolution to change by-laws.
A unanimous resolution is where everyone must vote for the proposal for it to pass.
Unanimous resolutions are only used is a limited range of circumstances for some 2 lot scheme restrictions and winding up strata schemes.
Renovations – I want to replace my carpet with floating timber flooring. What approval do I need? - 07/07/22
Unauthorised installation of hard-surface flooring in units can result in disputes between owners and owners corporations. If you are thinking about replacing carpet with timber, vinyl or hybrid floor coverings you should first review your by-laws and consider where issues may arise such as concerns about increased noise travelling to neighbouring units. An owner should apply for permission from their strata scheme before starting any work. The installation or replacement of wood or other hard floors is defined as a minor renovation therefore you may need approval at a general meeting if the committee have not been delegated the power to approval. To put yourself in the best position for a quick approval you should write to the strata manager [...]
Renovations – I want to upgrade my kitchen. What approval do I need? - 07/07/22
Before you get started it’s important to check if you need strata permission for your kitchen renovation. Depending on what you are doing you may need permission from either the strata committee (if they have been delegated that authority) or at a general meeting. Generally speaking, you can update your cabinets and bench tops without gaining approval from your owners corporation. Anything more substantial such as changing the location of pipes if on a common wall or the tiles on the floor will require approval. You’d be best to put your plans in an email to the strata manager and request they advise of the process to follow. If you’re unsure whether you are able to carry out a kitchen [...]
