Most of us enjoy a good Christmas party and hosting one should be a lot of fun for both the organiser and the guests. However, when you live in a residential strata scheme, the owners corporation will have a set of by-laws and rules for community living which you should understand before sending out 100 invites to your favourite people.

You and your guests must have a great time. Still, it is also important that you respect your neighbours and take steps to ensure the common amenities are safeguarded and that your gathering does not negatively impact the strata community.

Firstly, check with a member of the committee or the strata management company to ensure that having a gathering is not breaching any of the strata schemes by-laws. There may be limits on the number of guests, timings, noise and rubbish, alcohol, entry to the property and car parking issues that need to be addressed.

Most residential strata schemes with shared amenities such as a pool, tennis courts, BBQ areas, and the like will have capacity limits. This is due to several reasons, mostly associated with public liability insurance and ensuring the areas are safe for residents and guests. If you intend to host your party using the shared amenities, check capacity limits and stick to them. You should also book the space through the appropriate channels. Safe parties are great, and sticking to the capacity rules keeps your neighbours happy and the property and your guests safe.

Being considerate of your neighbours will help ensure good relationships within the strata community. Letting them know you are planning a gathering and what they may expect, keeping the music to an acceptable level, being mindful that sound travels through open air, and giving your guests the heads up about noise levels are all things you can do to respect those around you.

Make sure you check the by-laws on noise pollution, when indoors keep the windows and doors shut to minimise noise travelling, limit the number of guests using your balcony or courtyard, and make a concerted effort to avoid your guests from liotiering in the hallways, foyers or common areas wherever possible.

Noise is one of the biggest issues with house parties in a strata scheme. By being mindful and considerate you can enjoy the festivities and keep the peace.

Nobody likes waking up to a mess, especially one they didn’t create. Make sure you clean up shared areas before the next morning. Follow the guidelines of rubbish and recycling and leave the shared areas as you found them. Clean, free of rubbish, cups, bottles and plates etc. This will go a long way to maintaining a good reputation within the community.

These are all small common-sense things you can do to ensure your party is a success and that your neighbours are considered. Being respectful of those living in the same community is essential to a harmounious strata scheme.

Parties should be enjoyed and milestones celebrated it is just a case of being aware of your surroundings, knowing the by-laws and keeping others in mind.

At All Suburbs Strata Management we have skilled and professional strata managers who available to assist you with your strata management needs. Contact our expert team and experience the difference that professional and experienced managers can make to your living lifestyle.

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