One key difference between Strata House Rules and Strata By-Laws is that while every scheme will have By-Laws in place, not all schemes will have House Rules. House Rules assist in the control and management of common property for the benefit of all owners, advocating for the maintenance of the community and harmonious living within a scheme. They may also impose requirements for things such as the times that tradespeople may carry out work, where visitors may park, or opening times of shared facilities like a swimming pool.
One important attribute of Strata House Rules is that they serve as a guide and cannot be enforced unless registered as a By-Law on the Strata Plan. An advantage of House Rules is that they do not need to be registered via Landgate, making them easier to implement and modify. However, this also means they are not enforceable within a scheme, and breaches cannot be taken to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) over these matters.
Although not registered at Landgate, House Rules should still follow the same guidelines as By-Laws, ensuring they are not discriminatory, unfair, or oppressive. Having House Rules that fall within these categories could be considered a breach of the Standard By-Laws, leading to wider implications for the scheme.
1. Noise Control
Noise complaints are common in strata living. Implementing noise control rules helps ensure a peaceful environment for all residents. According to the 2023 Apartment Living Survey, 90% of apartment households in WA consist of one or two people, making noise control crucial for maintaining harmony.
- Establish quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM to minimize disturbances during the night.
- Set acceptable noise levels for different times of the day, emphasizing the importance of keeping volume down in common areas.
For more details on managing noise in strata properties, visit ESM Strata’s tips for community living.
2. Use of Common Areas
Common areas are shared spaces that require careful management to prevent misuse and ensure they remain clean and accessible.
- Implement a booking system for common areas like BBQ spots or function rooms to avoid conflicts.
- Require residents to clean up after using common facilities, leaving them in good condition for the next user.
Effective management of common areas is essential to maintaining a positive community atmosphere, as highlighted in the survey, where security and communal facilities were among the top features residents valued in their apartment complexes.
3. Parking Regulations
Parking can be a significant source of conflict in strata properties. Clear rules can help manage parking spaces efficiently.
- Ensure each unit has an assigned parking space and clearly mark visitor parking.
- Implement a system for reporting and dealing with unauthorized parking, such as fines or towing policies.
This can also extend out to driveways and how to maintain order of shared thoroughfares like this.
For further insights on maintaining order in shared spaces, refer to ESM Strata’s article on house rules vs by-laws.
4. Waste Management
Proper waste disposal is crucial for hygiene and the overall aesthetic of the property. The 2023 Apartment Living Survey found that 78% of apartment complexes in WA have facilities and amenities that include waste management systems.
- Provide clear instructions on what can be recycled and how to separate waste.
- Inform residents about the waste collection schedule and designate specific areas for bin placement.
For more tips on effective waste management in strata buildings, visit ESM Strata’s guide to the ideal bin room.
5. Pets Policy
Pets can enhance the quality of life but may also cause issues if not managed properly. Recent updates in WA strata laws indicate that strata schemes can no longer have blanket bans on pets, though reasonable restrictions can be imposed.
- You may introduce written approval for pets, including details on size, breed, and number of pets allowed.
- Establish rules for pet conduct, such as leashing in common areas and cleaning up after pets. These rules should comply with the Strata Titles Act 1985, ensuring that assistance animals are not unfairly restricted.
- Introduce a pet register so that pets in the complex are recorded. This helps if there are any missing pets, or pets that are camping out that don’t belong to a resident.
Benefits of Implementing House Rules
Implementing these house rules can significantly improve the living experience in strata properties:
- Reduces conflicts and promotes a peaceful living environment.
- Sets clear guidelines for all residents, making it easier to manage the property.
- Ensures common areas are used safely and responsibly.
- Well-managed properties tend to have higher property values and attract quality residents.
More Information
For a comprehensive understanding of house rules versus by-laws and maintaining harmony in strata living, visit:
For any questions about implementing effective house rules in your strata property or tailored support for your community, contact ESM Strata for expert advice and assistance.
