Our unit is the only place in our building on the ground floor with access to the backyard space everyone else in our buildings units is towards the front or on a level above. During our lockdown, we have been using the backyard space off our balcony for time outdoors. We’ve also now had neighbours within our building come to use the space as well. There is enough room for them but my only concern is when they wander into the space directly off our balcony and linger there as it does not comply with social distancing. Our strata manager has responded to my concern explaining that strata do not enforce public health orders so he cannot help with the matter and I should notify the police of my concerns. May I get your advice on the matter? – Sai, NSW

Q: Our unit is the only place in our building on the ground floor with access to the backyard space everyone else in our buildings units is towards the front or on a level above. During our lockdown, we have been using the backyard space off our balcony for time outdoors.

We’ve also now had neighbours within our building come to use the space as well. There is enough room for them but my only concern is when they wander into the space directly off our balcony and linger there as it does not comply with social distancing.

Our strata manager has responded to my concern explaining that strata do not enforce public health orders so he cannot help with the matter and I should notify the police of my concerns.

This hardly seems like a matter for the police force. My confusion here is that there are notices from the strata managers on all our building entries to comply with the current public health order i.e wear masks in public spaces on the property, no visitors etc.

May I get your advice on the matter?

 

A: While it may be true that strata managers do not have the authority to enforce public health orders, it is still possible for them to provide assistance when it comes to promoting COVID-safe practices in your strata property.

You may also wish to call upon your strata committee for assistance, or gently remind your neighbours of COVID-safe practices where you see them not being followed.

For more information, don’t miss our article 9 things you need to know about COVID-19 and strata living.