Quick answer: Strata committees should expect a clear quote before work, photos or camera footage of problems, common property and lot work kept separate, and honest advice on what is urgent.
Plumbing is one of the biggest line items in most strata budgets, and it’s also where owners corporations often feel they’re paying too much without knowing why. I do a lot of strata work, and I think most of that frustration comes down to transparency.
What owners corporations should expect
- A clear quote before work starts, with what’s being done and why
- Photos or camera footage of the problem, especially for drains and leaks
- Common property vs lot work kept separate, so the right person pays
- Honest advice on what’s urgent and what can wait for next year’s budget
Common strata plumbing issues
- Shared sewer and stormwater lines blocked by roots or grease
- Leaks from one unit into the one below
- Ageing hot water plants or individual units failing at once
- Stormwater pumps and pits in basement car parks
- Backflow device testing
Planned maintenance beats emergencies
A building that gets its drains camera-checked and its pumps serviced on a schedule spends less than one that only calls when something floods. It’s also easier to budget for.
If you’re on a strata committee or manage buildings around Ryde, Epping, North West Sydney or the North Shore, call me on 0451 001 503. I’m happy to walk the building and give you an honest view.
Quick questions
Generally the owners corporation pays for common property and lot owners pay for pipes that serve only their lot, but check your by-laws.
Scheduled drain inspections and pump servicing cost less than emergency call-outs.
