FAQ CATEGORY 07/07/22

Renovations – I want to replace my carpet with floating timber flooring. What approval do I need?

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 noting;

  • The type of material and where it is proposed to be installed.
  • Details of the work duration, times and who is doing it including arrangements to remove rubbish.
  • Your strata scheme may require additional information such as the product specification sheet or an acoustic engineer’s report.

If you’re unsure whether you are able to install floating timber boards in your property, check your strata scheme’s by-laws or ask your strata manager for more information.

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