Strata Law Isn’t Optional, But Confusion Is
Strata schemes run on legal foundations – but for many owners, what needs approval (and how to get it) isn’t always clear. That’s where Absolute Strata steps in.
We guide owners and committees through every tier of the Strata Schemes Management Act, ensuring that renovation works, maintenance decisions, and by-law changes meet strata management legislation requirements. Our steady process protects your scheme from disputes, financial risk, and costly missteps – with clear steps, not legal guesswork.
We’re often the bearers of bad news… but it’s how we present it. We don’t react defensively, we try to problem-solve. No ego. Thick skin. Soft delivery. That balance only comes after years in the industry.
Know the Rules: What Needs Approval and Why
Renovation approvals fall under Sections 108–110 of the SSMA. We help owners understand what’s cosmetic, minor, or major — and guide them through the right approval process every time. With Absolute Strata, strata compliance is clear and simple:
- Cosmetic Work: No approval (e.g. painting, lights, curtains)
- Minor Renovations: General resolution (e.g. kitchens, flooring)
- Major Works: Special resolution + by-law (e.g. waterproofing, structural changes)
We handle the full process — from resolution to by-law creation. Ask us about our Owner Renovation Guide – your practical reference for getting it right.
Proactive Compliance = Fewer Headaches
Renovation issues are one of the most common causes of conflict in strata — especially when owners don’t know what’s allowed. We prevent those problems before they start. Our managers educate owners early, clarify expectations, and ensure the right resolution is passed before any work begins. And if something does slip through, we help schemes resolve it fairly and lawfully, in full alignment with strata management legislation.
Legislation with a Human Touch
We take strata compliance seriously, but never lose sight of the people behind it. Our team brings deep knowledge of strata law, years of practical experience, and an emotionally intelligent approach to every issue. Whether it’s a by-law breach or a sensitive neighbour dispute, we act with professionalism and care. No finger-pointing. No confusion. Just a clear way forward that protects both individual owners and the wider scheme.
Need help navigating strata compliance? From minor updates to major works, Absolute Strata helps you meet your strata management legislation obligations with confidence. Get in touch to start the approval process, request by-law guidance, or speak to a team who knows the Act inside out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is strata management legislation?
Strata management legislation refers to the rules that govern how a strata scheme must operate in NSW, including maintenance, finances, meetings, and renovation approvals. The core legislation is the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, which Absolute Strata works with daily to ensure your scheme stays compliant.
What does strata compliance actually mean?
Strata compliance means that all decisions, works, and records in your scheme follow the requirements set by NSW strata law. This includes proper renovation approvals, by-law enforcement, record keeping, and meeting procedures, all of which Absolute Strata helps manage clearly and correctly.
What kind of renovations need approval?
Under strata legislation, cosmetic works don’t require approval (like painting or new curtains), but minor and major renovations do. We guide owners through the right approval path – from general or special resolutions to by-law creation, to ensure full strata compliance.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance in a strata scheme?
The owners corporation holds ultimate responsibility, but your strata manager plays a key role in guiding decisions and preventing legal issues. Absolute Strata ensures every action aligns with strata management legislation, helping avoid costly mistakes or disputes.
What happens if an owner doesn’t follow the compliance rules?
If an owner carries out unauthorised work or breaches by-laws, we work with the committee to address it fairly – often guiding retrospective approvals or formal notices. Absolute Strata always aims for resolution before escalation, while staying within legal boundaries.
Can Absolute Strata help draft or update by-laws?
Yes. While we don’t draft by-laws ourselves, we work closely with experienced strata solicitors who can assist. We help coordinate the process, whether for renovations, common property use, or building rules, and ensure your by-laws are properly registered, up to date, and compliant with NSW strata legislation.
Quick Links for Members
Access key forms, updates, and emergency contacts to help manage your property smoothly and with confidence.
Our Service Regions
We’re proud to support strata communities across NSW — from thriving city suburbs to growing regional centres.
Continue the Story
Sydney Metro
Reliable management for busy suburbs and high-volume strata.
Central West NSW
Local, people-first strata for towns where trust matters most.
Northern Rivers
Reliable management for fast-growing, community-led regions.
Sydney Head Office
19/700 Princes Highway
Kogarah NSW 2217
PO Box 478
Kogarah NSW 1485
Dubbo Office
Level 1, Suite 4/64
Talbragar Street
Dubbo NSW 2830
Orange & Central West Office
109 Byng Street
Orange NSW 2800
PO Box 1401
Orange NSW 2800
Northern Rivers
PO Box 286
Lennox Head
NSW 2478
