Legally Renovate Unit

Discussion in 'Renovation & Home Improvement' started by alexau, 27th Mar, 2018.

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  1. alexau

    alexau Member

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    27th Mar, 2018
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    Location:
    Melbourne
    I am planning to purchase 2 bedroom unit in Melbourne. After inspecting a number of properties I realised that most of them would require some sort of renovation to bring the property up to my standards.

    I would like to know what is allowed and not allowed when it comes to renovation.
    I understand that each body corporate has their own rules and most renovations would require approval.
    How difficult it would be to get approval?

    How can I find this information before purchasing the property? I do not want to end up in situation that I won't be allowed to do anything after purchasing the property.

    I would like to make it clear that I am taking about "unit" by Melbourne definition as the definition of "unit" may vary a lot from state to state or city to city. In Sydney this type of property may be known as "villa".
    By Melbourne definition it is a one storey property. There could be 2 or more units on one block of land, normally they have common wall or garage in between. Melbourne units have common property such as a common driveway and front yard.
     
  2. The Y-man

    The Y-man Moderator Staff Member

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    I believe you can do pretty much anything that

    1. doesn't need a council permit or engineering works (eg structural)
    2. does not affect external appearance (eg fitting of ramps, aircon etc)

    The Y-man
     
  3. alexau

    alexau Member

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    Do I need permission from body corporate to do the following work:
    - replace bathtub, shower screen and toilet,
    - re-tile bathroom and toilet
    - change kitchen cabinets and appliances (stove, rangehood, etc.)
    - replace floor covering (carpet or floor boards)
     
  4. The Y-man

    The Y-man Moderator Staff Member

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    As far as I know (and have done!) - NO on all of those.

    The Y-man
     
  5. craigc

    craigc Well-Known Member

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    These should be ok as all internal & not effecting other owners.
    Best to check the body Corp rules.
    External things like repaint may need BC approval for consistent appearance of all units & may be required to be the same colour. I’ve had this rule previously.
     
  6. alexau

    alexau Member

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    Thanks for the answers.

    What about installing ducted heating, evaporative cooling, aircon, window roller shutters? Do these things need BC approval?
     
  7. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    Yes to all.
     
  8. Marg4000

    Marg4000 Well-Known Member

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    If replacing carpet with floor boards, check BC for required level of noise deadening underlay (unless on ground floor).
    Marg
     
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