2 August 2023 / Matt Blewitt
The ins and outs of strata plans
Understanding Strata Plans is essential in navigating the complexities of property ownership. So, what is a strata plan? A strata plan is a legal document that sets out the subdivision of a property into individual lots and common property. Generally, multi-unit buildings, townhouses and apartment complexes require strata plans. In contrast to conventional land divisions, each lot signifies a distinct portion of the individually owned property, and the owners jointly own the common property.
Upon registering, strata plans must be submitted to officially commence the scheme. These plans contain essential information, primarily outlining the technical and administrative components of the strata scheme.
While no two strata plans are identical, they follow a standard structure. They consist of two main components: administration sheets and plan drawing sheets, including the location and floor plans. Plans also encompass common property, lot boundaries, by-laws and regulations.
Types of strata plans
On the first page of the strata plan, it provides essential details such as the name and registered address. The subsequent information required varies depending on the specific type of strata plan.
In addition to the original plan upon the scheme’s commencement, additional strata plan types include:
Strata Plan of Subdivision
The Strata Plan of Subdivision (Sections 13 and 14 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015) subdivides lots and common property to create new ones.
Strata Plan of Consolidation
The Strata Plan of Consolidation (Section 15 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015) merges two or more lots into a single lot. In cases where common property, such as a wall, floor, or ceiling, separates the previous lots, it may become part of the consolidated lot. Consequently, ownership of this land will vest in the name of the owner of the consolidated lot.
Building Alteration Plan
The Building Alteration Plan (Section 19 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015) illustrates the revised boundaries of lots when there have been modifications to their original definitions. This plan becomes necessary when a structure that previously defined a lot boundary is demolished or when a new structure aligns with a lot boundary.
Requirements for a strata plan
Creating a strata plan involves a systematic process that includes various legal and administrative steps. The first step is to engage a registered surveyor, who will conduct a detailed survey of the property, accurately measure and map the boundaries, identify existing structures and determine common property areas. This information forms the foundation of the strata plan.
Additional items included in the strata plan:
- Accurate floor plans of each lot, including measurements and specifications
- By-laws that govern the rules and regulations for the strata scheme, such as pet ownership, noise restrictions and the use of common property
- Identified and demarcated common property areas for all owners to share
- Specified unit entitlements for each lot, determining the owner’s share of expenses
- Legal compliance with the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 and Strata Schemes Management Act 2015
Once the relevant authorities approve the prepared strata plan, it must undergo registration to attain legal status.
Why choose All Suburbs Strata Management?
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 specialised strata management expertise servicing New South Wales. 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.
Meet The Author
Matt Blewitt
Licensee in Charge / General Manager
Matt’s career began in property management, and he worked his way through a range of senior roles before returning to the family business. He now oversees ASSM strata portfolios with a practical focus on risk, consistency and keeping things running as they should. He believes clear communication, sound judgement and a willingness to own mistakes when they happen are the foundations of successful strata management.
What keeps Matt motivated is the people he works with, both within the team and across client communities. He understands the pressures owners and committees face and always balances compliance with common sense. This measured approach has been shaped by years on the ground and a genuine desire to do the job right, no matter the challenge.
We provide Australia’s most professional and comprehensive strata management services across Greater Sydney and other parts of NSW. Our expertise spans residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes. It’s easy to switch to All Suburbs Strata Management. See the extensive range of suburbs our certified strata managers oversee below.
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FAQs
What exactly is a strata plan?
A strata plan is a legal document that subdivides a property into individual lots and shared common property, clearly showing boundaries, common areas and ownership rights — typically used for apartments, townhouses and other multi-unit developments.
What information does a strata plan include?
Strata plans usually include accurate lot drawings (floor plans), boundaries, common property areas, unit entitlements and sometimes by-laws and regulations that govern how the scheme operates.
How does a strata plan affect ownership?
When a strata plan is registered with land authorities, it creates separate titles for each lot and establishes the owners corporation (body corporate), which manages common property on behalf of all owners.
What are common property areas in a strata plan?
Common property are shared spaces not owned by individual lot owners, such as driveways, gardens, stairwells and hallways, and they are jointly owned and maintained by all lot owners through the owners corporation.
Are there different types of strata plans?
Yes. Besides the original plan that commences the scheme, there are other types like strata plan of subdivision, strata plan of consolidation and building alteration plans — each serving different purposes under strata legislation.
Who prepares a strata plan?
A registered land surveyor prepares a strata plan, conducting detailed surveys of the property to accurately map lot boundaries, common areas and other required elements before the plan is lodged for registration with the relevant land registry.