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Confused about who pays for strata maintenance in WA? Learn the difference between owner and strata company responsibilities with real examples.
Understanding Strata Maintenance Responsibilities in WA
Understanding Strata Maintenance Responsibilities in WA
Strata maintenance can be confusing — especially when it comes to who’s responsible for repairs, replacements, and general upkeep. In Western Australia, the responsibility usually depends on whether the item is part of a lot or part of the common property. On this page, we’ll explain the key differences and help you know what your levies actually cover.
What’s Common Property — and What’s Not?
What’s Common Property — and What’s Not?
In strata schemes, common property includes shared areas like gardens, external walls, stairwells, driveways, and sometimes plumbing or roofing. These are maintained by the strata company using funds collected through strata levies.
By contrast, everything within the internal boundaries of a lot — walls, carpet, appliances, and personal fixtures — is typically the owner’s responsibility.
Who Fixes What?
Who Fixes What?
External walls, roof, guttering - Strata company
Interior paint and walls - Lot owner
Plumbing in walls - Strata (unless noted)
Garden maintenance (shared) - Strata company
Leaking tap or internal pipe - Lot owner
Hot water system (shared) - Depends on system type
💡 Always check your strata plan and by-laws — they can override the general rule!
Delays in Maintenance — What You Can Do
Delays in Maintenance — What You Can Do
If the strata company delays important repairs (e.g. a roof leak or broken gate), owners can raise the matter with the Council of Owners, or formally lodge a request. In extreme cases, disputes can be escalated to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT).
Strata Maintenance Explained – WA Edition
Strata Maintenance Explained – WA Edition
Still unsure about who’s responsible? Watch this 2-minute explainer that breaks it down simply with visuals.
Key Points Covered:
What strata maintenance includes
Who’s responsible?
Planned vs emergency repairs
How to report maintenance issues
Why strata levies matte
FAQs
FAQs
Q: Who is responsible for plumbing in a strata unit?
A: It depends on the location. Plumbing in walls or under slabs is often strata company responsibility, while internal fixtures belong to the owner.
Q: Can I be forced to repair something in my lot?
A: Yes, if it impacts other lots or common property, strata may compel you under by-laws.
Q: What happens if the strata company doesn’t fix something?
A: You can raise the matter formally, and if needed, escalate to SAT (State Administrative Tribunal).
Ready for Better Strata?
Ready for Better Strata?
If you want a strata manager who actually makes things easier—reach out to Redstone Lane.
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