I am an owner of a lot. I would like to know if I am responsible for repair/replacement of flyscreens in windows and balcony sliding door, as some of them have holes and gaps. If I am responsible for repair and replacement, do I need Executive Committee or OC permission to replace window screens? – Seppi, NSW

Q: I am an owner of a lot. I would like to know if I am responsible for repair/replacement of flyscreens in windows and balcony sliding door, as some of them have holes and gaps.

If I am responsible for repair and replacement, do I need Executive Committee or OC permission to replace window screens?

 

A: The answer to your question will be impacted by your property’s by-laws, when your strata plan was registered, and if your current flyscreens are originals or replacements. Firstly, check your by-laws – they may specify who is responsible for repairing or replacing flyscreens.

If your by-laws do not clarify this, check when your strata plan was registered. In New South Wales, if the strata plan was registered before 1 July 1974, flyscreens are generally part of the lot and the lot owner’s responsibility for maintenance and repairs.

If the plan was registered after 1 July 1974, the balcony walls, including the windows and doors and their working parts (including flyscreens), are generally common property and are therefore the owners corporation’s responsibility. However, there is an exception to this rule – if your flyscreens were installed by an owner after registration of the strata plan, they might be considered the lot owners property.

If you determine the flyscreens are in fact your responsibility, we recommend approaching your strata committee for approval before going ahead with the replacement. You may have to abide by certain rules regarding the new flyscreens’ appearance to ensure they do not negatively impact your property’s outward appearance. You can find out more about this topic through our article: Balcony maintenance and repairs in strata – who is responsible?