Body corporate and internal partitioning

[ronafios]

I have a unit in the mountains that is part of a large body corporate (100 units). The kitchen is getting a bit old, and I thought it would be good to have it upgraded, and to add a couple of partitioning walls to aid functionality, maybe a BIR as well. I've checked the body corporate rulings and there doesn't appear to be anything that would stop me from arranging contractors and getting going (apart from basic access/noise provisions regarding time of work etc). However, a number of the units have a partitioning wall already (just 1 simple wall) from when the construction was new. These units are called 'deluxe' and they command around $30k more at sale than the units like mine that don't have the wall. Well, it doesn't cost $30k to have a 3m x 2.4m wall built. I'm wondering if the body corporate would have any way of stopping me from adding the wall? The problem is that it's a very opinionated BC, and if I asked them they would probably just say 'no'. The question is, CAN they say no to my desire to upgrade the kitchen and add partitioning walls?

Strata title.

I know each body corporate is different, just wondering if anyone has had similar experiences.

Ross.

[bitingmidge]

Get some advice!

Unless someone here has specific knowledge of the relevant act in the ACT, don't listen!

In Qld it wouldn't require body corporate permission if it was fully contained within the lot and not visible from the outside.

But you're not in Qld.

Cheers,

P

[LotteBum]

If I were you, I'd give the Body Corporate Manager a call and have a chat to them about whether this is something you will need permission to do. A lot of it depends on whether it will have a negative impact on the structural integrity of the building... which I don't believe adding a wall would!

When we had a unit, I found the Body Corporate Manager to be very, very helpful. The committee might be a bunch of pricks, but the manager should be of some help to you.

Just be thankful it's not company titled!

Cheers,
Lotte