With Christmas just around the corner, there are some important things to note when considering strata maintenance as a lot owner or committee member of a strata building.
Many service providers and contractors are closed between Christmas and New Year, with some taking extended breaks on either side of the holidays. Your first port of call should be to confirm with your Strata Management Company whether they will be taking time off, reducing hours, or operating with skeleton staff over this period. This information should be available via the company’s website, social media, or you can ask over the phone.
If a strata maintenance emergency occurs, and you are able to contact your Strata Management company or the Council of the Strata Company, you should do so by phone as soon as practicable. If you are unable to do so, and the damage or maintenance is clearly urgent, we suggest you arrange the repairs yourself with a suitable contractor to prevent further damage or risk to the Strata Company. Any reasonable costs should be fully refunded by the Strata Company.
Your building may have specific after-hours and holiday processes for residents to follow, including contacting building management or emergency services regarding urgent works for any common property impacted. If the incident is determined to be non-essential, you could be liable for any costs.
In a life-threatening or emergency situation, you should assess whether emergency services are required. We have compiled some useful contacts below for a variety of cases and scenarios.
- Dial 000 – Please remember this number is for life threatening emergencies only.
- Police 131 444
- Fire 133 337
- Ambulance 9334 1222
- Water Police 131 444
The Department of Fire and Emergency services are also available on 132 500. They can assist with:
- Significant structural damage like collapsed roofs or ceilings
- Making temporary emergency repairs to homes and buildings
- Removing fallen trees that have damaged homes and cars
- Sandbagging areas in danger of flooding
- Pumping out flood water
- Rescuing trapped or injured people, and helping people relocate if they are in danger
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to working with you in 2023.
