So, you're moving into a strata property and dreaming of cozy evenings with your furry (or scaly… or feathery) companion. But before you bring your beloved pet through the door, it's important to know: not all pets are welcome in strata living. 

Let's take a playful (but helpful!) stroll through which pets usually get a green light and which ones might raise a few strata eyebrows. 

If you own a strata property, you’ve probably thought, “Hmm, I’ll just freshen things up a bit.” But in strata, “freshening up” can mean anything from a lick of paint to a full-blown, dust-everywhere, jackhammers at 50 paces, council-approval required makeover. The trick is knowing whether your project is either cosmetic, minor, or major because the rules (and the paperwork) are very different. 

If you own an apartment, townhouse, or villa in a strata scheme, chances are you’ve heard whispers about the infamous strata meeting. Maybe you’ve even received a politely worded notice inviting (or is it summoning?) you to an Annual General Meeting (AGM).  

Losing your apartment keys can quickly turn a normal day into a stressful one especially if you live in a strata-managed building. Whether you’re locked out or simply can’t find your keys, knowing who to call (and what your responsibilities are) can help you act quickly and avoid unnecessary costs. 

Here’s a practical breakdown of what to do if you’ve lost your apartment keys, with real-life examples to make things clear. 

The ultimate guide for strata, community, and company title leaders who want order… and maybe even smiles. 

So, you’ve drawn the short straw (or bravely volunteered) to chair the meeting. Congratulations! You now hold the gavel of power… or, more realistically, the pen you’ll tap on the table to get everyone’s attention. Chairing a meeting doesn’t have to feel like herding cats. With the right approach, you can run a meeting that’s productive, on time, and (dare we say) enjoyable. 

Let’s be honest: receiving a strata meeting notice doesn’t exactly spark joy. For many of us, it’s right up there with tax return instructions and assembling flat-pack furniture. But before you glaze over and bury it under a pile of takeaway menus or delete into your email bin, give it a second look. That notice holds more power than you think it tells you when big (and small) decisions about your building will be made, and whether your voice gets heard or drowned out. 

That empty concrete slab seems perfect for a few extra items a bike rack, maybe some shelves, boxes of unwanted clothes and crockery. But even though it’s your space, strata laws treat parking areas differently from private property. Here’s what you can (and can’t) store in an open car space without breaching by-laws or safety regulations. 

A torn flyscreen might seem like a small annoyance, but in a strata property, even small repairs can raise the big question, who’s responsible? The answer depends on a few key factors: whether it’s part of the common property, your lot, and what your by-laws say. 

Buying an apartment, townhouse or a community title property can be exciting, but it’s also a major financial commitment. Beyond inspecting the property itself, one step many buyers overlook is the record search, [also termed a ‘strata search’]. This is a simple yet powerful tool that can protect you from unexpected costs and headaches down the track.

Shared laundries are one of the most practical facilities in an apartment building. They save space in individual units, reduce the need for extra appliances, and provide convenience for residents. It’s a magical place where socks disappear, dryers refuse to cooperate, and passive-aggressive notes flourish on washing machines. A little courtesy goes a long way towards keeping the laundry room a stress-free zone.

What happens if your building has known safety risks, such as fire hazards, structural issues, building defects or outdated electrical systems? Will insurers still provide cover, and if so, under what conditions?

Whether you’re fixing a leaky tap or installing a brand-new kitchen, apartment owners in strata schemes often wonder: Can I use my own tradespeople? And what rules can the strata committee actually enforce? 

Here’s a practical, Australia wide guide to the rights and limits around using your own tradies, no matter which state or territory you live in. 

Shared spaces and diverse households can add a few extra layers to the planning, but that doesn’t mean Halloween can’t work in apartments. With a little care and a few ground rules, it can be a great opportunity to strengthen community spirit and help neighbours connect in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

A key reform taking effect on 27 October 2025 involves updated provisions for debt recovery and payment plans under the Strata and Community Schemes legislation.

A lot of strata owners assume that apartments aren’t a good place to keep pets, as most units have limited space and generally don’t have an easily accessible outdoor area for animals like cats and dogs to roam free. However, many pets are able to thrive in strata buildings. The key is finding an animal that fits your space.

For years, many strata committees have been frustrated by the lack of transparency around insurance costs, undisclosed rebates, and hidden commissions. In response, some strata managing agents are now adopting a fee-for-service model…

If you own a unit in a strata building and have been thinking about switching to solar energy, you’re part of a growing movement, but installing solar panels in a shared building isn’t as straightforward as it is for standalone homes…

Strata insurance claims don’t have to be overwhelming. By preparing key information and documents early, you can help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure your scheme is back to normal as soon as possible. 

Strata maintenance is about creating safe, compliant, and appealing environments for all residents. Addressing these common problems early can save you thousands in the long run and prevent serious disruptions. 

Effective strata communication is about more than just resolving issues—it’s about building a respectful, supportive, and harmonious community.