Strata manager views
Leisha de Aboitiz, Partner at Massons, said: “The survey is intended to be a helpful and cost-effective tool for strata managers given the statutory obligation to review by-laws by no later than 30 November 2017 (see clause 4, Schedule 3 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (NSW)).
“Many strata managers have indicated that they are not quite sure where to start and are daunted by the size of the task – given most strata managers will need to carry out this review across numerous schemes under management.
by-law
“This survey is designed to be user friendly and to help “get the ball rolling”. By starting the conversation with lot owners directly via a simple user-friendly survey, strata managers can collate feedback and assess majority opinion before drafting motions and setting the agenda for a general meeting.
“If a Scheme can genuinely improve its by-laws (rather than just ticking a compliance box) then it is a win for the scheme and a win for the strata manager – because sensible scheme-specific by-laws will always make day-to-day management a much easier task for all involved.”
Christine Nesbit, Principal of Albury Wodonga Real Estate, said: “The survey is a great tool for strata managers and owners to use. It allows owners to be involved with making decisions about their scheme and the by-laws that control it.
“Issuing the survey also gives people time to take it away and look at it and make their recommendations. There is less chance of disagreements at a meeting because everyone has had their say already. It is also a record if anyone says they have not been consulted.
“I will be using it and would recommend strata managers use it before a meeting or when they take over a new scheme as it will be valid until a new act is introduced or until legislation changes.”