Can you explain in broad terms what common property actually is? – Peter, NSW

Can you explain in broad terms what common property actually is?

Common property is generally a shared space with your neighbours/other owners and tenants living in the strata property, that is external to your lot (i.e. not inside your apartment).

It will be unique to each property and can include lobbies, gardens, pools, gyms, lifts, car parks, doors, walls, ceilings, floors, carpets, common area décor and appliances (e.g. art, pot plants, or communal washing machines), machinery and motors, air conditioning and heating ducts, and keys and locks. However, there are exceptions where the common property can be within your lot. For example, shared walls or permanent appliances inside your apartment that cannot be moved might be considered common property. Anything like this will be specifically laid out in your by-laws, potentially with stipulations around who is responsible for them.

For more information, we recommend reading our article on maintaining common property.