"Strata living can often lead to disputes between the various strata owners.  These should be addressed in a proper manner and dealt with as quickly as possible before they boil over into a more serious situation.  Here are a few ideas for dealing with disputes".

Sometimes living in a strata complex disputes can arise between owners.  The best way to resolve this is for the owners to talk through the problem with each other first.

If a dispute cannot be resolved between the owners, a mediation service is available through the NSW Department of Fair Trading's mediation service.  However, if mediation is not successful, an application may be made to the Department of Fair Trading's Strata Schemes Adjudicator.

For detailed information about whole mediation and adjudication process, go to the Resolving Issues - Strata Schemes section on the NSW Department of Fair Trading's website and go through some of the excellent information pages and fact sheets listed on that page.  There's a wealth of information there so be prepared to spend a little bit of time working on the best options.

Conversley, contact a strata law specialist to get right to the heart of the matter, but this option costs somewhat more than the trying to sort it out yourself.

What types of disputes can arise?

• Parking on common property without approval
• Noise
• Alterations to common property
• Damage to ceilings or walls due to water penetration
• Keeping pets without approval from the Owners Corporation

TIP:  As the mediation and adjudication process is quite complex it may be best to seek assistance from a strata law specialist.