What's Wrong with Strata Renters?

I can't remember a time when there wasn't a distinction between owners and renters in strata buildings.  And these days I wonder if I ever will.


Despite most strata legal regimes providing renters with a range of legal rights vis-a-vis the strata corporation and obligations on strata corporations that benefit renters, most strata owners, managers and regulators ignore them.  


That might be fine if they represented a small minority of strata constituents.  But, recent research suggests that at least half the people living in strata apartments in NSW (and probably the rest of Australia) are renters and not owners.  So, they represent a significant interest group that should be acknowledged and supported.

That's why I was particularly interested to read a recent blog by my friends at MiCasa called Respecting renters gives valuable perspective and creates community.  They say "Instead of alienating renters, try bringing them into the fold. Encourage community engagement by allowing renters to contribute their ideas and experiences. Share building information and bylaws, so that renters get up to speed quickly on your strata policies."


And, even if you don't buy into the "build a community" notion for strata buildings, it makes sense on financial grounds alone to ensure that renters want to rent in your strata building.  After all, their rent is entirely funding that owner's strata levies.

Read the blog if you want to see a different perspective on strata's poor cousins.  And, challenge your thinking about the rights and value of renters in strata buildings.


Francesco ...