Regardless of whether you live in a brand-new complex or an older apartment block, repairs and maintenance are a necessary part of life. In a strata scheme, however, the question of who pays—lot owners or the Owners Corporation—can sometimes cause confusion.

Who Is Responsible?

According to NSW Fair Trading, the rule of thumb is:

• Lot Owner: Everything inside the airspace of the unit, including internal walls, fixtures, carpet, and paint on the walls.
• Owners Corporation: Everything outside the unit’s airspace, such as walls, windows, doors, and tiles fixed to the floor and boundary walls.

For example:

• The lot owner must replace the carpets inside their apartment.
• The Owners Corporation must maintain carpets in common areas.
• The lot owner replaces a shower head, but the plumbing falls under the Owners Corporation.

Why Prompt Action Matters

At Metro Strata, we always recommend reporting common property issues immediately. Problems are cheaper and easier to fix when addressed early, and delays can raise safety risks for residents and visitors.

How Repairs Are Funded

Minor repairs can usually be covered by existing funds. For larger jobs, the Strata Committee may call a meeting to decide the best approach. If major repairs are required but funds are low, the Owners Corporation can either:

• Raise a special levy on lot owners
• Apply for a loan

Raising the funds quickly is almost always better than leaving issues unchecked.

When Owners Can Escalate

If you feel the Owners Corporation is not addressing repairs in a timely manner, you are entitled to seek mediation through NSW Fair Trading. This ensures that all parties have a fair process for resolving disputes.

Engaging the Right Tradespeople

No matter who pays for the repairs, it’s essential that only licensed tradespeople are engaged. It’s also best practice to obtain at least three quotes before engaging a contractor.