Can I amend my strata lot without a by-law?

In NSW, whether or not you may amend your strata lot without a by-law depends on the type of work you want to carry out:

• Cosmetic changes, such as painting, installing carpet, hanging shelves or replacing kitchen cupboards, generally do not require approval and do not require a by-law.
• Minor works, such as installing timber flooring, renovating a kitchen or bathroom, or installing air conditioning, require approval from the owners corporation, usually by ordinary resolution. A registered by-law may be required depending on the nature of the work and if the scheme chooses to impose one.
• Major renovations that affect common property in a significant way, including structural changes, waterproofing, altering external walls, or modifying services, require approval by special resolution. In most cases, a registered common property rights by-law is required to allocate responsibility for ongoing maintenance and repair.

Note that carrying out works without proper approval can result in orders to stop the work, rectify damage, reinstate common property or cover specified costs.

Before starting any renovations, it’s important to confirm whether approval or a registered by-law is required.