While the difference between a deposited plan and a strata plan might appear as a matter of intricate administrative terminology, in NSW, it’s a fundamental aspect of property ownership. Both of these plans are essential forms of land titles, shaping how properties are structured and managed.

Land titles in NSW rely on precise land plans derived from surveys, which define property boundaries and legal identities. The NSW Land Registry Services (LRS) oversees this process, necessitating land plans for registration in two key situations: when forming new land parcels, typically through subdivision; and when allocating existing land or portions for specific purposes like easements or leases.

This process secures precise land parcel definitions and legal recognition, which is vital for property ownership and management. The key difference between deposited and strata plans lies in how they define and share it.

Deposited plans are survey plans created and lodged with LRS. They are graphic representations of specific parcels of land, providing detailed information about the boundaries, dimensions and configuration of that land. These plans have several important purposes, including subdivision, easements, boundaries, titles and zoning and development.

Subdivision is the most common use of deposited plans, as they are required to subdivide larger parcels of land into smaller lots or parcels. Each newly created lot is represented on the plan, and these lots can be sold, transferred or developed individually.

Deposited plans define property boundaries accurately to avoid disputes over land ownership and provide the basis for property title registration. Local governments and planning authorities also use these plans to enforce zoning regulations and approve or deny development applications.

When a property owner needs to submit a deposited plan, they must engage a registered land surveyor, as stipulated by the Real Property Act 1863. The creation of deposited plans in NSW is highly regulated, ensuring accuracy and compliance. An assigned DP number uniquely identifies each plan and facilitates referencing and tracking in public records.

In NSW, strata plans are legally documented representations of multi-unit properties or buildings, typically used for the division and management of individual lots or units and common property within strata schemes. They often relate to an apartment building or several townhouses within a development. They outline the boundaries of each lot, as well as common property areas, and include essential information for property owners, such as unit numbers, dimensions and any associated by-laws or regulations. These plans are essential for defining ownership and responsibilities.

In strata schemes, the Owners Corporation manages common property, as the representative of various owners, including individuals, families or companies. These properties can be held in ‘fee simple’ or as leasehold. Strata schemes can include multiple lots on a single land parcel, as seen in retirement villages and rural developments. Common property typically covers shared areas like hallways, gardens, driveways, recreational spaces and even properties that aren’t adjacent, like cabins or mobile homes.

The registration of a strata plan officially commences the strata scheme and issues titles under the strata scheme legislation.

We are the strata compliance experts. Ensuring your strata scheme commences with registering a well-defined, accurate strata plan is imperative.

We provide the most professional and accurate advice and administrative services with transparency and integrity.

ASSM has over 40 years of experience. We are large enough to provide rock-solid stability and small enough to ensure old-fashioned service and build long-lasting relationships.

We are not just experts in residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes. At ASSM, we assist numerous developers in preparing for registration and provide strata reports and inspections.

We will ensure your strata scheme runs as smoothly as possible. When considering buying into a strata scheme or wanting to engage a professional and qualified team, contact ASSM today and experience the difference that 40 years of successful strata management will make.