OC Renovations to Balconies

Hi guys,

First up, apologies for the long post!!

Our block (15 units located in  Sydney) has recently had a condition report commissioned regarding water penetration issues around the balconies. The report recommends a couple of options that we can get scoped and quoted on, the best two of which are:

1. replacement of all balustrades, removal of all balcony floor tiles, installation of waterproof membrane, re-tiling of floor, and repairs to balcony entries/doors/flashing

2. replacement of all balustrades, removal of all balcony floor tiles, installation of waterproof membrane, re-tiling of floor, and total replacement of the door and window set with stacking doors

Obviously option 2 is more expensive, however, not as expensive as one would think due to the ease of replacement rather than performing fiddly repair work to the entries. However, it would definitely improve the amenity of the unit and possibly improve the value.

Our strata manager has recommended option 1 because she has advised that option 2 would mean that each lot owner would be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the balconies and door from then on. She also said we would have to enact a new by-law in order to govern a common appearance for tiles etc.

Can anyone explain why option would pass the responsibility onto the lot owners? We currently operate under the model by-laws.

Thanks for your help!!