Australia Wide

UNDERSTANDING MOULD GROWTH IN STRATA PROPERTIES POST-CYCLONE ALFRED

The aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has left many strata properties across Southeast Queensland vulnerable to mould growth due to excess moisture and water ingress. Mould is a natural part of the environment, but when left unchecked in indoor spaces, it can present serious health risks and structural damage to buildings. Understanding how mould develops, its health implications, and the conditions that promote its spread is essential for managing it effectively.

FREE-RIDING A POTENTIAL POWER PLAY FOR EV CHARGING

Electric vehicles in strata are fast becoming a big issue, with more and more people wanting to charge their vehicles on-site.

What should a body corporate do?

The first thing a body corporate committee needs to do is make sure its by-laws provide that committee approval is needed before anyone installs any form of charger or charges from sockets in their car park or otherwise. The committee needs to act reasonably in making its decision, but there are many questions that arise from this issue.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT – HOW EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SAVES TIME AND MONEY

Do you sometimes feel like you are talking to a brick wall when discussing with your committee, the things they need to do to maintain their building? Have they had report after report prepared but little or no action has been undertaken in repairing the building? In my experience, what really helps is a third party to come and talk to the committee about next steps. You wouldn’t believe how many times I have heard “I’ve been telling them exactly what you said and finally they have listened!”. Finally the committee decides to take action and do the work required to maintain their building.

READ on for how to effectively communicate maintenance requirements within a committee and save everyone’s time and money.

THE FUTURE OF EXTERIOR CLEANING: DRONE PRESSURE AND SOFT WASHING

Exterior cleaning has evolved significantly over the years, with traditional methods like manual pressure washing and scaffolding becoming less popular due to their inherent risks and inefficiencies. Enter drone pressure washing and soft washing – innovative techniques that are reshaping the industry and offering safer, more cost-effective solutions.

The evolution of drone cleaning also known as drone pressure washing, combines drone technology with traditional pressure washing methods. This hybrid approach has gained significant traction in recent years, transforming the high-pressure cleaning industry. Businesses like Aerial Apex are at the forefront of this innovation, advocating for its safety and efficiency.

FLEXI HOSES: UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR QUEENSLAND BODIES CORPORATE

Flexible braided hoses, commonly known as flexi hoses, are a common feature in modern plumbing systems. They connect water outlets to fixtures such as sinks, taps, and toilets, offering convenience and flexibility. However, while flexi hoses may seem unassuming, they can become ticking time bombs, causing significant property damage if not properly maintained or replaced.

Read on for details on the potential risks, responsibilities and preventative measures to consider when affected…

BETTER BUILDINGS: ENHANCING RESILIENCE AND ADDRESSING DEFECTS IN STRATA COMMUNITIES

For strata communities, strengthening the resilience of buildings is essential to mitigating the impact of extreme weather events and ensuring that properties can withstand these growing challenges. This involves technological advancements and updates to building codes as well as a renewed focus on regular maintenance and proactive management of potential building defects.

‘STRATA MANAGER’ NOW OFFICIALLY RECOGNISED BY THE ABS AS AN OCCUPATION IN

Following years of advocacy, SCA Australasia was advised early this year that following successful consultation with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) the occupation title of ‘strata manager’ would be introduced for the first time under their occupation’s classifications regime.

The Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA) is now available, and the new strata manager classification can be found here.

TOP 10 OF 2024

As we settle into 2025, adjusting to writing the new date and getting back into the rhythm of the year, the team at Smart Strata is following tradition by reflecting on our most-read updates from 2024.

Last year was packed with significant developments—from the release of the Strata Community Association’s ‘Strata Insurance Disclosure Best Practice Guide’ to in-depth discussions on insurance affordability and accountability, led by the Australian Reinsurance Pool Corporation. With no shortage of hot topics, our updates were read an impressive 682,945 times throughout the year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

As the Christmas holiday season approaches and we prepare to wrap up another successful year, Smart Strata, alongside our foundation partners Archers the Strata Professionals, Strata Compliance Solutions and MAI Strata, would like to take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and thank you for your continued support throughout 2024.

COMMUNAL LIVING – CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE

Well, it’s that time of year again – will there be Christmas Cheer or Tears?

It is the time of year where we put aside our differences and disputes over dogs barking or the neighbouring apartment smoking. Instead, we take the opportunity to argue about Christmas lights on balconies, parties that run until the early hours of the morning, that same unit taking up all the visitor car parks, and hordes of those visitors taking over the pool area during the day.