Professional Management Executed Diligently

Proactive | Accountable | Value Focused

At Allied Strata we don’t just administer buildings, we protect asset value, resolve complex issues and ensure your scheme operates with clarity and control” to “At Allied Strata we don’t just provide administrative functions, we proactively improve your asset value, resolve complex issues and ensure your scheme operates with clarity and control.

Introduction

This resource centre provides practical guidance to assist owners, residents, and committee members in understanding key aspects of strata ownership, governance, and responsibilities.

Our objective is to simplify complex matters and provide clarity to support informed decision making.

Frequently Asked Questions

Each topic below expands into a full explanation when selected.

1. Common Property VS Lot Property

Understanding Ownership Boundaries

In a strata scheme, ownership is generally limited to the internal airspace of the lot, bounded by the internal surfaces of the walls, floor, and ceiling. 

Common Property Typically Includes:

  • Original windows and balcony doors 
  • Bathroom and balcony waterproofing and tiling 
  • Main entry doors 
  • Structural walls and boundary walls 
  • Plumbing, wiring, and services located within common property walls 

Lot Property Typically Includes:

  • Internal fixtures and fittings (kitchen joinery, appliances, sanitary fittings) 
  • Internal doors and non-structural walls 
  • Floor coverings such as carpet 
  • Internal paint finishes

Clear identification of ownership boundaries is essential to determine maintenance responsibility, approval requirements, and cost allocation within a strata scheme.

Renovations and Approval Requirements

Cosmetic Works (No Approval Required)

Minor Renovations (Committee Approval Required)

Major Renovations (Owners Corporation Approval Required)

Before undertaking any works within a lot, approval requirements must be clearly understood. Owners should consult their strata manager or building manager prior to commencing any works. 

A clearly defined scope of works and appropriate approvals are critical to ensure compliance with legislation and to avoid disputes or rectification issues.

Levy contributions are divided into two primary funds being Administrative Fund and Capital Works Fund:

Administrative Fund (Operational Expenses) – Covers day-to-day building expenses, including:

  • Insurance premiums 
  • Cleaning and gardening 
  • Repairs and maintenance 
  • Utilities for common areas 
  • Strata and building management services 
  • Routine servicing of building systems 

Capital Works Fund (Long-Term Planning)

Allocated for major repairs and asset replacement, including:

  • Repainting and façade works 
  • Replacement of building components (roofing, windows, waterproofing) 
  • Structural repairs and upgrades 
  • Replacement of shared assets (lifts, equipment, infrastructure) 

Effective financial planning ensures that buildings are properly maintained while avoiding unexpected special levies and financial strain on owners.

The strata committee is elected to act on behalf of the Owners Corporation in managing the day-to-day affairs of the building. 

  • Key Responsibilities Include:
  • Administration and management of common property 
  • Enforcement of by-laws 
  • Approval of certain works and renovations 
  • Decision making within delegated authority 
  • Acting in the best interests of all owners 

Strata committee members have a fiduciary obligation to act responsibly and in the collective interests of the Owners Corporation.

The strata manager is engaged to provide professional administrative, financial, and compliance support to the Owners Corporation.

Key Functions Include:

  • Convening and facilitating meetings 
  • Financial management, including levy collection and reporting 
  • Ensuring compliance with legislative obligations 
  • Coordinating maintenance and service contracts 
  • Managing insurance and claims 
  • Record keeping and correspondence 
  • Assisting with dispute resolution and mediation 

The strata manager acts as the central coordinator, ensuring the building operates efficiently, remains compliant, and is managed in accordance with the Owners Corporation’s instructions

CONSIDERING A CHANGE IN STRATA MANAGEMENT?

We deliver a structured and seamless transition, ensuring continuity of operations with no disruption to your building.