We have recently installed new doors and windows in our building. She, due to previously disclosed disability, is not able to open the door using the number pad. Is it our responsibility to install and pay? What do we need to do? -Stephanie, NSW

Q: Hi, we have recently installed new doors and windows in our building. I am on our owners committee.

All owners were informed of the changes. One owner-occupier now claims we are discriminating against her. She, due to previously disclosed disability, is not able to open the door using the number pad. Asked for OT assessment.

The recommendation is for top-level swipe card intercom to be installed which will cost $11,500. Is it our responsibility to install and pay? What do we need to do?

 

A: If the disability was disclosed and therefore known to the owners committee before all the decisions and actions were taken to install the new doors, which resulted in the owner-occupier not being able to use the new doors, it may fall on the committee’s responsibility to pay.

Alternatively, it may be worth consulting various other assessors and getting a second or third opinion on the matter.