How to Celebrate Safely and Respectfully on Common Property
As the end of the year approaches, many Western Australians are ready to celebrate the festive season, and for strata residents this will often mean gathering around the pool, the BBQ area or hosting festive drinks with neighbours.
Shared living brings wonderful opportunities for community connection, but it also means balancing the joy of celebration with the need to respect by-laws, neighbours, and safety standards. A little planning now can help your strata community enjoy the season without unwanted disputes or accidents.
Common Property Gatherings
The shared spaces (such as pools, courtyards, rooftops, and BBQ areas) in apartment buildings are classified as common property, which means the space belongs to every owner collectively, and any use of it must comply with your by-laws.
Before organising a gathering, it’s worth checking the strata company policies on:
- Bookings (eg. some schemes require prior notice or a booking system to avoid clashes.)
- Guest numbers (Many by-laws or house rules limit the number of non-residents using facilities at once)
- Noise (Even during holidays, general noise regulations from the council and from your strata company by-laws or house rules still apply)
- Cleaning and damage (The host is usually responsible for leaving the area tidy and covering the cost of any damage.)
If you’re unsure, ask your strata manager or council for clarification to ensure a harmonious environment for all. Notifying residents of an upcoming gathering through your community notice boards or communication channels may also be a good idea.
Pool Safety and Shared Responsibility
Summer celebrations often centre around the pool, but extra use brings added risks. Western Australia’s building laws require pools and spas to have compliant fencing, self-closing gates, and safety signage. Strata councils are legally responsible for maintaining these barriers and ensuring they remain in good condition.
When residents host guests, they also share responsibility for supervision. Children must never be left unattended near water, and alcohol and swimming rarely mix well. If your complex has specific pool by-laws such as limits on inflatables or glass near the water, make sure everyone knows them before the party begins.
A few small reminders from your strata council in early December can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe.
Deck the Halls
Decorations add sparkle to any home or building, but they also come with safety and insurance considerations.
When installing festive lights, wreaths, or inflatables:
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Carefully select lights for the right application (eg. outdoor lights with low voltage requirements, or safe indoor lights with the correct voltage)
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Avoid fixing decorations to walls, balustrades, or roofs without permission especially in common property
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Don’t overload shared power outlets (this can create fire risks)
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Keep cables clear of walkways to prevent tripping hazards.
Remember, if decorations are on common property, the council of owners may set rules about placement, timing, and removal dates. Respecting these helps maintain fairness and avoid damage to shared structures.
Neighbourly Spirit
Christmas is a time for goodwill and that includes being mindful of those around you. Noise from music, carols, or visiting guests can travel easily between lots, especially in apartment complexes. Let neighbours know in advance if you’re hosting, and wind things down at a reasonable hour.
Parking is another seasonal pinch point. Visitor bays should remain available for short-term guests only, and driveways or fire exits must always stay clear.
Finally, encourage residents to dispose of rubbish thoughtfully. Overflowing bins or abandoned packaging can cause frustration (and attract pests) during the warm weather.
