Renovating Your Kitchen Without Creating Chaos for the Strata Committee
Six Steps for Renovating Your Kitchen Without Creating Chaos for the Strata Committee
Ah, the kitchen renovation. It’s the ultimate home upgrade the promise of sleek benchtops, whisper-quiet drawers, and maybe even a super fancy tap that does fizzy as well as boiling water on command. But in a strata scheme, it’s also the fastest way to send your committee members scurrying for their by-law binders.
The good news? You can have your dream kitchen without sparking a strata meltdown. Here’s how to keep things beautiful in both your apartment and your relationships with the committee.
Step 1: Know What You’re Changing
Not all renovations are created equal in strata world. Some jobs are “cosmetic” (like swapping cupboard handles) and need no approval. Others, like replacing flooring or moving plumbing, are “minor” or even “major” works, which often require formal consent.
If your new kitchen involves:
Knocking down walls
Moving sinks or appliances
Changing ventilation or exhaust systems
Drilling into common property (especially in older buildings that may contain asbestos then proceed with caution)
…then chances are you’ll need approval, and even a specific by-law from a strata lawyer before you even open the flat-pack.
Step 2: Make Friends With the Paperwork
Nobody loves paperwork (except maybe the committee secretary), but getting the right approvals is the secret sauce to a smooth renovation.
In most Australian states, you’ll likely need to:
Submit a renovation application form
Provide plans, photos, or diagrams
Outline how you’ll manage noise, dust, and rubbish removal
It may sound like overkill, but it’s the committee’s job to protect the building and other residents. Show them you’ve thought things through, and you’ll be halfway to a green light.
Step 3: Choose Tradies Who Play Nice
Your cousin’s mate with a cordless drill might be cheap, but in strata, you need licensed, insured professionals who understand working in multi-unit buildings.
Good strata-savvy tradies will:
Stick to permitted work hours
Use protective coverings in common areas
Keep noise and mess to a minimum
Respect your neighbours’ right to not step on a stray screw
Professional and friendly contractors who charm the building manager or your neighbours are worth their weight in stone benchtops. (They will get repeat business too!)
Step 4: Keep the Neighbours Sweet
You may be excited about your renovation, but your upstairs neighbour just wants a peaceful afternoon nap. A little courtesy goes a long way:
Give advance notice of noisy works
Avoid starting the jackhammering at 7:01 am
Say thanks with a box of chocolates, flowers or a bottle of wine when it’s all done
Sometimes, the best renovation tool is goodwill.
Step 5: Manage the Mess Like a Pro
Kitchen works generate dust, packaging, and the occasional rogue tile. Have a rubbish removal plan and make sure nothing is left blocking hallways or car spaces. Keep the foyer clean and wipe down any marks daily. Common property is shared territory treat it like you would a friend’s living room.
Step 6: Celebrate (and Share the Glow-Up)
Once the dust has settled (literally), invite a few friends and maybe a friendly committee member over to admire the transformation. Sharing the “after” can help erase memories of the “during” and show the committee their trust was well-placed.
The Takeaway
Kitchen renovations in strata don’t have to be a drama. Know the rules, keep communication open, and show respect for the shared space. Do that, and you’ll get to enjoy your dream kitchen without hearing those dreaded words: “We’ll have to take this up at the next meeting and….”
Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should seek independent legal and professional guidance relevant to their specific circumstances and jurisdiction