Is storage permissible under stairwells if it is not blocking egress? – Susan, NSW

Q: Our block of 10 units in the Northern Beaches has two stairwells. In one stairwell the area under the stairs has stored surfboards. It is not blocking any egress and is not bothering any of the owners in this stairwell. There is also a storage cupboard under the stairwells on both sides. Is storage permissible under stairwells if it is not blocking egress?

 

A: Generally speaking, it may be okay provided that it does not block any entry or exit ways. More importantly, however, it must not present issues with safety and/or fire safety hazards.

You may wish to bring the issue up as a motion at your next meeting to make everyone in the strata property aware of the decision and perhaps even call for a vote so that it can be officially recognised. Another avenue may be to reach out to your strata manager for further clarification and advice.