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From 1 July 2025, important changes to NSW strata laws, part of the Strata Schemes Legislation Amendment Act 2025 , have come into effect, aimed at making strata living more sustainable, fair, and easier to manage. Whether you're an owner-occupier, investor, or a member of your strata committee, it's essential to understand how these updates may impact your property and community. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and what they mean for you: Sustainability Initiatives Strata communities can now more easily embrace environmentally friendly improvements. These reforms make it simpler for owners corporations to approve and install sustainability infrastructure such as: Solar panels Battery storage systems Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations Energy-efficient upgrades The aim is to reduce the red tape previously involved in getting approval for these improvements. Strata owners are encouraged to work together to make their buildings greener and future-ready, benefiting the environment and potentially reducing long-term costs. Clearer Duties for Strata Committees Strata committees play a vital role in the smooth running of a scheme. Under the new laws, their responsibilities, particularly for chairpersons, are now spelled out in more detail. This includes: Clearer guidelines for chairperson conduct and decision-making Greater accountability for committee actions More transparency to ensure all owners have confidence in the committee's role For owners, this means better governance and more confidence that the committee is acting in the community's best interests. Protection Against Unfair Contract Terms The new reforms bring greater protections for owners corporations when entering into contracts. This helps prevent unfair terms that may have previously disadvantaged strata schemes. Key improvements include: More scrutiny of service contracts Protection against long-term or lock-in agreements that don't serve the owners' interests More transparency and fairness in dealings with service providers This is particularly important when negotiating contracts for maintenance, repairs, or strata management services. Streamlined Approval for Minor Renovations If you've ever been frustrated by the process of getting approval for small upgrades to your property, there's good news. The new laws simplify the process for minor renovations within strata schemes, such as: Installing air-conditioning units Adding floorboards Renovating bathrooms or kitchens (where structural changes aren't involved) If a strata committee doesn’t provide written reasons for refusing a minor renovation request within three months, the request will be automatically approved. This creates a more practical, owner-friendly approach to keeping your property updated, while still respecting common property and neighbours' rights. Improved Repairs and Maintenance Obligations The owners corporation's duty to properly maintain and repair common property has been strengthened. NSW Fair Trading has also been given more power to keep things in check, including: Issuing compliance notices Entering into enforceable undertakings And here's an important one, the timeframe for owners to claim damages if the scheme fails to maintain common property has been extended from two years to six years. That gives owners more time to seek compensation if maintenance isn’t being handled properly. Protection from Unfair Utility Contracts (Embedded Networks) If your building uses an embedded network for electricity where the power comes through a single supplier arranged by the developer or building management, there are now stricter rules: Maximum term limits for new embedded network agreements entered into after 1 July 2025 New disclosure requirements to give owners greater transparency It’s all about ensuring owners know what they’re signing up for and preventing long-term, unfavourable lock-ins. Easier Accessibility Modifications & Assistance Animal Approvals The reforms recognise the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in strata communities. It is now easier to: Install accessibility features like ramps or handrails Provide evidence that an animal is an assistance animal under the law These changes make it simpler for people with disabilities to live comfortably and safely in strata schemes, while also helping committees handle these requests fairly and lawfully. Increased Penalties for Developers Developers are now held to a higher standard with increased penalties for breaches of strata laws. Before the first AGM, developers will now be required to have the initial maintenance schedule and initial levy estimates independently certified. This aims to: Improve building quality and compliance Discourage poor development practices Fewer chances of levies suddenly skyrocketing after you’ve bought in For owners and residents, this is a step towards greater confidence in the long-term integrity of new strata developments. Financial Hardship Information on Levy Notices Later in 2025, all levy notices issued by strata schemes must include a Financial Hardship Information Statement. This is designed to: Provide clear information to owners experiencing financial difficulties Help owners understand their options for support or payment plans Promote fairness and understanding within strata communities It’s a welcome step in acknowledging that financial challenges can arise and that support should be accessible. These latest reforms make it clear that the NSW Government is committed to building fairer, more transparent, and sustainable strata communities. More information is available from NSW Government . As always, Compass Strata is ready to guide owners through the complexity of community management, speak to us today.

I read the recent news about Sydney apartment owners being slugged with special levies of up to $220,000 to replace flammable cladding, and I couldn’t help but feel that familiar sinking feeling in my stomach. It brought back memories of my own experience a few years ago when I discovered my investment property was caught up in the cladding mess. Our building, like so many others, had cladding that was considered completely compliant at the time of construction. The builder followed the rules. The supplier sold products that were stamped and certified. Council signed off on the development. And as buyers, we all made what we thought were safe, well-informed decisions, trusting that a building wouldn’t be approved if the materials weren’t up to scratch. But as it turns out, we were all walking blindfolded into a ticking time bomb. When the regulations changed and suddenly that same cladding was declared a fire risk, the responsibility to fix it fell squarely on the shoulders of unsuspecting owners like me. We were lucky we could afford the special levy. It still stung (a lot!), but we made it work. Sadly, many others aren’t so fortunate. The article highlights owners facing financial ruin, and it’s heartbreaking. But it also raises a tough question – who’s actually at fault here? The builder used what was legal. The supplier did the same. Council ticked their boxes. The government, keen to avoid liability, simply tells owners to replace it. And so, ordinary people are left carrying the burden for a problem they never created. It’s overwhelming. I know that feeling of sitting in a meeting room full of anxious owners, staring down an enormous problem, wondering where to even begin. It’s easy to feel powerless in the middle of this chaos. But if there’s one thing I’ve seen time and time again, it’s that the outcome depends hugely on who you’ve got around the table. When the right people are involved, people who are focused on finding practical, realistic solutions, real progress is possible. Sadly, I’ve also seen what happens when misinformation spreads and emotions boil over. Instead of addressing the issue head-on, some owners end up wasting precious time, energy, and money arguing amongst themselves, pointing fingers, or clinging to the hope that the problem will somehow just go away. But the truth is, it never does. That’s exactly why having calm, experienced, and trusted people around the table matters so much. At Compass Strata , we use our experience and knowledge to help strata committees and owners navigate these complex, often stressful situations. We don’t sugar-coat the facts because no one benefits from false hope, but we also never lose sight of the human impact these issues have. We know that behind every tough decision are real people, families, and often a lot of anxiety. That’s why we focus on asking the right questions, breaking down the legal and financial complexity, and offering clear, practical advice so owners can make informed, confident decisions. I truly hope that no one ever finds themselves in such a situation, but if you do, perhaps we can offer some useful insights.   Disclaimer: This article is purely an opinion piece based on personal experience and general industry observations. We are not privy to the specific facts or details of the situation mentioned in the news article.

As the mercury dips and winter tightens its grip, apartment living can present some unique challenges when it comes to staying warm—especially when you’re trying to keep energy bills in check. Whether you’re in a studio or a high-rise unit, there are practical, budget-friendly ways to stay cosy without cranking up the heater. Here are some clever tips and tricks to warm up your space (and yourself) this winter. 1) Harness the Power of the Sun Natural sunlight is your best friend during the colder months. Open your curtains or blinds during the day to let the sun naturally heat your home. Once it sets, draw the curtains to trap that warmth inside. If you don’t already have thermal or blockout curtains, consider them a smart investment—they help insulate windows and prevent heat loss. 2) Seal Out Drafts Like a Pro Even small drafts can significantly chill your apartment. Check around windows, doors, and vents for air leaks. Use weather stripping, door snakes, or even rolled-up towels to block out cold air. You can also apply inexpensive adhesive foam tape around windows and use removable draft stoppers for doors. 3) Layer Up—Yourself and Your Furniture Put on your warmest socks, jumpers, and loungewear—thermal clothing helps retain body heat, reducing the need for extra heating. Likewise, layering your furniture helps too: cover couches with blankets or throws and lay rugs on bare floors (especially if you have tiles or floorboards) to prevent heat loss through the ground. 4) Space Heating Smarts If you’re using a portable heater, be strategic. Only heat the rooms you use the most and keep the doors closed to contain the warmth. Consider a ceramic or oil-filled electric heater with a timer or thermostat to avoid overheating and wasting power. And always unplug when not in use. Bonus Tip:  Keep your reverse-cycle air conditioner filter clean—it’ll run more efficiently and consume less power. 5) Cook More, Eat Warm Use your oven and stovetop to your advantage—baking and cooking meals at home not only warms the kitchen but fills your apartment with delicious aromas. Dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles are not only hearty and nutritious but also heat you up from the inside out. 🍲Here's top 50 soup recipes from taste.com.au https://www.taste.com.au/quick-easy/galleries/top-50-soup-recipes/ai0e9r33 6) Maximise Humidity Dry air feels colder. Adding humidity to your space can make it feel warmer. A budget-friendly option is placing a bowl of water near a heater or radiator (but be safe!) to add moisture to the air. Houseplants or a small humidifier can also do the trick and improve indoor air quality. 7) Close Off Unused Spaces Why heat a space you’re not using? Keep closet doors and spare rooms closed to concentrate warmth where you need it most. This simple trick helps maintain a comfortable temperature in your main living areas. 8) Reverse Ceiling Fans If you have ceiling fans, flip the switch to reverse the direction (clockwise in winter). This gently pushes warm air—which rises—back down into the room. It’s a surprising but effective hack that can complement your other heating methods. 9) Insulate from the Inside If your apartment has older windows, consider temporary window insulation kits. They’re easy to apply, affordable, and removable at the end of the season. Even bubble wrap taped to the glass works surprisingly well in a pinch. 10) Sleep Smarter Winter bedding is worth every penny. Invest in flannel sheets, thicker quilts, or a hot water bottle to keep you warm at night. Electric blankets are also efficient, especially when used on a timer setting. Pro tip: warm your bed before you get in, then switch it off to save power. Final Thoughts Staying warm in winter doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing power bills or living in a puffer jacket. With a little planning and a few small changes, you can create a cosy, energy-efficient haven in your apartment all season long. Embrace these tips, and you'll be snug, stylish, and saving money while others are still shivering. For all your strata needs, contact Compass Strata , we’ve got layers of experience, and we’re not afraid to use them.

Facing financial hardship and falling behind in your strata levies? Apply for assistance from your owners corporation. Whether it's delaying debt recovery or proposing a payment plan, we're here to support you as your strata manager. Financial Hardship Support is Available Facing Tough Times? We Understand Dealing with financial challenges can be overwhelming, and everyone's situation is unique. But you're not alone. Compass Strata and your owners corporation are here to offer support during these difficult times. Financial difficulties can hit hard and unexpectedly, but it's essential to reach out for assistance before things spiral out of control. Your owners corporation may be able to provide various forms of support, such as delaying debt recovery or setting up a manageable payment plan. Fill out the form below to request financial relief from your owners corporation. Your application will be handled with care by your strata manager and strata committee. Be sure to provide all necessary details to ensure a swift response and avoid any unnecessary delays. Remember, we're here to help you navigate through these challenges and find a solution that works for you. Additional assistance or access to a free financial counsellor is available through the National Debt Helpline . First Name Last Name Company Email Phone Strata Plan Lot Number Grounds for Financial Relief * Critical Illness / Injury Death of a Dependent Divorce / Separation Loss of Rental Redundancy Unforeseen Major Expenses Other Form of Relief * Request to Delay Debt Recovery Request a Payment Plan Request to Waive Interest Other Supporting Information Upload Supporting Document Upload File Include Proposed Payment Plan I agree to the Statement of Agreement Submit We have received your application. One of of team members will be in touch should further information be required. Statement of Agreement: By submitting this form, you agree that: (1) All information provided is accurate (2) Your submission, including personal financial details, will be shared with the owners corporation and become part of their records (3) Compass Strata cannot make decisions regarding your application; approval rests solely with the Owners Corporation (4) Fees apply for approved payment plans (contact service@compassstrata.com.au for details) (5) Failure to uphold an approved payment plan may result in automatic cancellation and commencement of recovery action without notice (6) You must promptly inform Compass Strata of any changes in your circumstances. Community Insights A blog by Compass Strata :: Explore . Engage . Empower Opinion: Cladding Crisis – Who Really Pays the Price? I read the recent news about Sydney apartment owners being slugged with special levies of up to $220,000 to replace flammable cladding,... Compass Strata 3 min read 10 Smart Tips to Stay Warm This Winter 10 clever tips and tricks to warm up your space (and yourself) this winter without breaking the bank Compass Strata 3 min read Creating a Community Where Everyone Feels at Home Mindfulness in apartment living means being aware of how your actions affect neighbours and helps create a respectful, harmonious, and inclusive community. Compass Strata 4 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Get detailed information about your strata scheme or community association with a Section 184 or 174 Certificate. Request yours today by filling out the form and attaching proof of payment. Section 184 / 174 Certificate Online Request For faster turnaround, select 'Urgent Request' A Certificate issued under Section 184 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 or Section 174 of the Community Land Management Act 2021 provides comprehensive information about the strata scheme or community association, including its financial status. Typically required in the context of unit or lot sales, it facilitates financial adjustments at the time of settlement. To request a Section 184 / 174 Certificate, kindly complete the form below and attach proof of payment . The applicable fees are prescribed by the Strata Schemes Management Regulation 2016 / Community Land Management Regulation 2021. Standard Request Urgent Request Standard Requests are fulfilled within 14 days Fees: $119.90 per lot $59.40 per utility lot / car space All rates mentioned above include GST. Urgent Requests are fulfilled within three business days Fees: $239.80 per lot $118.80 per utility lot / car space All rates mentioned above include GST. Payment Details Name: Compass Strata Pty Ltd Bank: Suncorp Bank BSB: 484 799 A/C: 562 692 392 Ref: SP_Lot_s184 (E.g. SP1668_Lot 18_s184) First Name Last Name Company Email Phone Vendor's Full Name Strata Plan Lot Number Request Type * Standard Request s184 Urgent Request s184 Standard Request s174 Urgent Request s174 Proof of Payment Upload File Upload supported file (Max 15MB) Letter of Authority (If applicable) Upload File Upload supported file (Max 15MB) Submit Community Insights A blog by Compass Strata :: Explore . Engage . Empower Opinion: Cladding Crisis – Who Really Pays the Price? I read the recent news about Sydney apartment owners being slugged with special levies of up to $220,000 to replace flammable cladding,... Compass Strata 3 min read 10 Smart Tips to Stay Warm This Winter 10 clever tips and tricks to warm up your space (and yourself) this winter without breaking the bank Compass Strata 3 min read Creating a Community Where Everyone Feels at Home Mindfulness in apartment living means being aware of how your actions affect neighbours and helps create a respectful, harmonious, and inclusive community. Compass Strata 4 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Elevate your strata experience with Compass Strata's tailored solutions. Our commitment to leadership and excellence ensures smooth functioning and growth for your community. Experience proactive problem-solving and partnership - Your Sydney Strata Manager. Our Services 01. Strata Management Navigating Success Together, Compass Strata At Compass Strata, we are dedicated to elevating your strata experience by providing tailored solutions that address the unique needs of your community. Our commitment to leadership, partnership, and excellence sets us apart, guiding property owners towards success. With a focus on transparency, collaboration, and proactive problem-solving, we strive to ensure the smooth functioning and growth of your residential, commercial, retail or industrial strata community. Explore a new era of strata management with Compass Strata, where your community's well-being is our top priority. Meet our Featured Communities Services Comprehensive community management guaranteeing the seamless operation of your community Administration & Secretarial Maintain strata roll & records Prepare meeting agendas & minutes Facilita tion of meetings Enable strata searches Provide relevant certificates for the sale & purchase of property Address owner inquiries Financial Management Establish & manage trust account Annual budget preparation Collection of levies Debt recovery action Manage payments Prepare trust account audit Statutory reporting Technical & Compliance Manage building insurance & claim Coordinate statutory building compliance & certification Common property repair & maintenance Register and uphold by-laws Defect/Project management 365 Afterhours Emergency Support Online Meeting & Voting 24/7 Customer Portal Online Payment Authorisation Transparent & Responsive Communication is key. Compass Strata prides itself on transparency and responsiveness, keeping you informed and involved in every aspect of your community's management. Tailored Solutions We understand that each community is unique. Compass Strata prides itself on delivering bespoke solutions crafted to meet the specific needs of your community, ensuring harmony and efficiency. Extensive Experience With years of proven expertise, Compass Strata stands as a beacon of experience in strata management. Trust in our seasoned professionals to navigate the complexities of community management effortlessly. Innovative Technology Stay ahead with Compass Strata's tech-forward approach. Our use of cutting-edge technology streamlines processes, enhances communication, and keeps your community on the forefront of modern strata management. Request a Quote Choose Compass Strata, where experience meets innovation, and let us elevate your community management to new heights. Contact us today to embark on a journey of seamless strata management! Get in Touch Community Insights Community Insights A blog by Compass Strata :: Explore . Engage . Empower Opinion: Cladding Crisis – Who Really Pays the Price? I read the recent news about Sydney apartment owners being slugged with special levies of up to $220,000 to replace flammable cladding,... Compass Strata 3 min read 10 Smart Tips to Stay Warm This Winter 10 clever tips and tricks to warm up your space (and yourself) this winter without breaking the bank Compass Strata 3 min read Creating a Community Where Everyone Feels at Home Mindfulness in apartment living means being aware of how your actions affect neighbours and helps create a respectful, harmonious, and inclusive community. Compass Strata 4 min read 1 2 3 4 5