An owner in our nine single story unit complex wants to change the roofing. What percentage of owners needs to agree for it to go ahead? – Dee, VIC

Q: An owner in our 9 single story unit complex wants to change the roof colour and roofing material from tile to colourbond. What percentage of owners needs to agree to these changes for it to go ahead?

A: The change of roofing material would be considered a significant alteration and/or upgrade of the common property. Either interpretation requires a Special Resolution to achieve, requiring 75% of all owners to vote in favour of the motion.

An interim Special Resolution, which matures after 28 days if unchallenged, can also be obtained. The interim Special Resolution may be obtained in two ways:

  • At a meeting or ballot whereby 50% of owners vote in favour, and no more than 25% vote against.
  • At a general meeting which achieves a quorum of 50% attendance, there are no votes against the motion for the Special Resolution, and the motion passes. For example, if five of nine owners attend the general meeting, three vote in favour, and two abstain, the motion is taken to have passed.