Best Practice / Hints & Tips

THE COMMITTEE LIFECYCLE PART 2 – BY-LAW MANAGEMENT

Welcome to Part 2 of the Lifecycle of a Committee — this time, we’re tackling the importance of by-laws.

In Part 1, we explored how a committee is appointed and the responsibilities of each member. Now, in Part 2, we delve into the first major challenge for the newly formed committee at Sesame Street CTS: enforcing its by-laws.

Read on to see how Big Bird handles Oscar the Grouch’s garbage encroachment, Elmo’s unexpected pet predicament, and Bert and Ernie’s unauthorised improvements.

THE LIFECYCLE OF A COMMITTEE PART 1

Welcome to the first instalment of our series exploring the lifecycle of a committee, from its initial appointment to navigating disputes. In this series, we’ll break down the key stages, responsibilities and challenges committees face — using a light-hearted yet insightful analogy: Sesame Street CTS 123.

Registered 56 years ago, this fictional scheme is home to a diverse group of volunteers who dedicate their time to keeping their community running smoothly. Their goal is to ensure sunny days where friendly neighbours can meet every day — but as with any committee, challenges inevitably arise.

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.

RECOVERING FROM EX- TROPICAL CYCLONE ALFRED: YOUR ESSENTIAL NEXT STEPS

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has left its mark on Southeast Queensland, with strong winds and heavy rainfall causing widespread damage to strata properties. If your building has been affected, knowing the correct steps to take will help ensure a smooth recovery. This guide outlines what to do next, from safety checks to insurance claims, and how Archers the Strata Professionals and MAI Strata can assist you.

PRIORITISING SAFETY: OFFICE CLOSURE & CYCLONE ALFRED PRECAUTIONS

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to impact Southeast Queensland, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential disruptions to infrastructure. In response, all of our Southeast Queensland offices have been temporarily closed, and the Smart Strata and Archers the Strata Professionals Teams are now working remotely to continue supporting our clients. While we will do our utmost to assist, we ask for your patience as emergency services and critical support are prioritised for those in the greatest distress.

We remain committed to ensuring the well-being of all strata communities. We encourage you to reach out for assistance, whether for property concerns, emergency contacts, or reliable tradespeople for urgent repairs. You can access our Supplier Directory on the Smart Strata website for trusted service providers ready to assist during this period.

EMERGENCY WORKS IN RESPONSE TO DAMAGE CAUSED BY CYCLONE ALFRED IN SEQ

At the time of this publication, Cyclone Alfred is expected to have made landfall in South East Queensland. Significant property damage is expected. Essential building infrastructure and services may be compromised and require repairs.

Lot owners will look to committee members for quick action. Committees will in turn look to strata managers and other advisors for guidance on how to navigate the complicated legislative landscape and administrative procedures to ensure those urgent repairs can be carried out.

We provide this guidance on the processes, remedies and considerations involved so it may help you help any affected strata communities you manage or are a committee member in.

CYCLONE PREPARATION GUIDE FOR STRATA OWNERS

Strata owners along the Queensland coast are urged to check property and make action plans to ensure safety and prevent additional damages. Now is the time to Plan, Pack and Listen.

1. Check your disaster management plan
2. Check your insurance excess and coverage
3. Carry out a pre-cyclone building inspection to ensure the scheme is safe and free of debris
4. Secure any loose items in common areas and balconies/patios (including removal of shade sails if possible)

Complete Storm Checklist and Guide, READ MORE…

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.