UNDERSTANDING PROPERTY BOUNDARIES

Managing a strata property involves balancing shared responsibilities and individual ownership. Committees and strata managers must ensure that buildings remain safe, functional, and compliant—while understanding who is responsible for each area of maintenance and repair. One of the most important aspects of effective strata management is knowing exactly where property boundaries lie.

Why Property Boundaries Matter

Property boundaries define the limits between private lots and common property. These distinctions determine who is responsible for maintaining or repairing specific areas of the building. Clear understanding prevents disputes, supports timely maintenance, and helps safeguard the property’s long-term value.

When issues arise—such as leaks, cracks, or structural damage—knowing whether the problem originates within a private lot or common property ensures repairs are allocated correctly. This clarity also reduces unnecessary costs and delays.

Shared Spaces and Common Property Boundaries

Common property includes shared areas such as roofs, external walls, stairwells, lifts, and driveways. These elements are essential to the building’s safety and function and must be maintained regularly.

Early detection of defects—like water ingress or façade deterioration—is key to preventing larger structural issues. Committees can benefit from engaging qualified experts who can identify root causes and provide evidence-based reports to guide repair decisions. These assessments often include diagrams showing where boundaries lie and how responsibilities are divided.

Property boundaries for Individual Lots and Internal Areas

Inside each lot, finishes such as paint, tiles, or fittings may show signs of damage. However, what appears to be a surface issue can often trace back to deeper structural or waterproofing problems. Understanding where the private lot ends and common property begins is critical before undertaking repairs.

Comprehensive inspections help committees and owners determine whether issues fall within an individual’s responsibility or the body corporate’s, ensuring repairs are fair and effective.

Exclusive Use Areas

Certain parts of common property—such as balconies, courtyards, or car spaces—may be allocated for exclusive use by particular owners. Although these spaces are enjoyed privately, the responsibility for maintenance can vary depending on the body corporate’s by-laws.

Regular assessments of exclusive use areas help identify emerging issues early, such as cracked tiles or worn membranes, preventing them from developing into costly repairs.

The Role of Expert Assessment

Professional assessments can help committees and owners make informed decisions. By applying systematic investigation methods—such as tracing leaks or structural movements—experts provide clarity on the cause, location, and extent of defects.

This evidence-based approach ensures that maintenance is targeted and efficient. It also provides documentation that supports transparency between owners, managers, and insurers.

Planning and Prioritising Maintenance

Effective maintenance planning is about more than reacting to problems—it involves proactive inspection and clear prioritisation. Expert guidance helps committees:

• Identify urgent and emerging issues.
• Understand the cause and impact of defects.
• Develop practical and cost-effective repair strategies.
• Allocate responsibilities correctly between lot owners and the body corporate.
• Maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

A structured approach to maintenance ensures repairs are timely, durable, and aligned with best practices, extending the lifespan of the building.

Building Confidence Through Knowledge

Understanding property boundaries and maintenance responsibilities empowers committees and owners alike. When everyone is clear about who is responsible for each area, disputes are minimised, repairs are handled efficiently, and the property retains its value over time.

By combining clear boundary identification with expert advice, strata communities can foster cooperation, protect their investments, and create a safer, more sustainable living environment.

Article contributed by Lynda Kypriadakis, Managing Director, DPX Projects.