There are three types of renovations for strata properties:
- cosmetic work
- minor renovations
- major renovations
Cosmetic Work
Owners can do cosmetic work without approval. This includes day to day work such as:
- installing or replacing hooks, nails or screws for hanging paintings or other things on walls
- installing or replacing handrails within your lot
- interior painting
- filling minor holes and cracks in internal walls
The owners corporation can declare other types of work as ‘cosmetic’ if they pass a by-law.
Minor Renovations
Owners need approval, over 50% of the votes in favour, before doing any minor renovations which include:
- renovating a kitchen
- changing recessed light fittings
- installing or replacing wood or other hard floors
- changing internal walls
- sustainability measures (such as a clothesline or reverse cycle air conditioner). These cannot involve changing the outside appearance of a lot or structural changes.
The approval process may need the owner to give details of the work which may include:
- any plans of the work
- when the work will be carried out (times and dates)
- qualifications and details of the tradespeople who will do the work
Major Renovations
These include:
- structural changes
- waterproofing
- changes affecting the outside appearance of the property
- work that needs approval under other laws, eg council approval
This work needs a special resolution vote. The owners corporation cannot delegate approval for major renovations to the strata committee.
Source: NSW Fair Trading