Changing Balcony Opening Door to a Modern Slider in Pre-1974 Strata Block

Lnemisis on 28/11/2019 - 11:24

Sydney 1960's Eastern Suburbs Red Brick Strata Block of 12. I am on the OC.

I am looking to replace the 1960's single timber door/windows with a modern safe sliding door.

The original single timber door/window frames are worn out and have significantly passed it's life expectancy. They let in road noise, have dangerous 3mm 1960's glass and the whole opening is showing signs of rot as well as water ingress.

I know that pre-1974 strata means the balcony space and subsequently the doors are lot property, not common space. In this case it's my responsibility, not strata. My questions are the following;

1) Can I change this without notification?
2) Would I advise Strata Manager of the proposed change?
3) I note there are no by-laws regarding to cosmetic changes that I've seen

If for some reason the other member of the OC rejects my proposal (the single other person), would I need to take this to a vote at an EGM or go straight to NCAT?

Home & Garden

Comments

  • [Deactivated] on 28/11/2019 - 12:44
    +1

    Do it and find out. Ask for forgiveness not permission.

    • nemisis on 28/11/2019 - 12:52

      Looking for sensible responses.

      • [Deactivated] on 28/11/2019 - 12:54
        -1

        It is one. You said you read the bylaws. Short of getting lawyers involved do it.

        • nemisis on 28/11/2019 - 12:58

          Fair enough. I guess it is one solution. Thanks

          • [Deactivated] on 28/11/2019 - 12:58

            @nemisis: Also suggest talk to your strata company. Its their job to know.

  • brad1-8tsi on 28/11/2019 - 13:06
    +2

    Talk to your strata manager.

    In my block I'd have a chat to my neighbours first but there's only 8 of us.

    Certainly you'd have more chance of success if the new door looked similar to the rest of the complex but maybe it doesn't matter if it can't be seen?

    edit: also it's maintenance and safety so they have to agree to something

    • nemisis on 28/11/2019 - 13:13

      It wouldn't be very visible as it's top floor (3 level).

      • brad1-8tsi on 28/11/2019 - 14:17

        I'm sure you can get aluminium doors / windows with a timber "look" (DecorWood??). Even it was just brown anodized it would probably be acceptable.

        Maybe get some samples so you can show what it will look like.

        Funny coincidence as i was looking up the rules for balconies this morning as one of the owners has concrete erosion under the tiles caused by a leaking downpipe.

  • Euphemistic on 28/11/2019 - 13:51
    +1

    Contact the strata manager. They might want to plan to do all of the the same to keep the external facade consistent.

    • [Deactivated] on 28/11/2019 - 14:17

      ^This

      The issues with your balcony door may well be experienced by other apartments in your block, esp. considering the age of the building.

      You can also try posting your query on the Flat Chat forum which is a strata living advice website.

  • Stewardo on 28/11/2019 - 21:14

    1 no
    2 yes
    3 has to be the same as original, if you want to alter design, colour. this would need to be approved by committee.

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