I want to upgrade the flooring in my apartment and am thinking about removing the carpet and installing either floorboards or tiles.
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Answer by Neha Sharma, Hillsdale 2036 Sydney
- Yes. In NSW you must provide the owners’ corporation with a detailed notice in writing at least 14 days before you commence any renovation. If you also seek their consent you reduce the chance of misunderstandings or disagreements arising from your activities.
- You should also check your strata scheme’s by-laws to see if there are any specific restrictions about removing carpet inside your apartment.
- If you are replacing your carpet with floorboards or tiles you must ensure that they will not carry noise down to your neighbours.
- It is always a good idea to ensure that you get professionals to cover your floor with sound proofing before laying tiles or floorboards to avoid any conflict.
- If your new floors are too noisy and disruptive for your neighbours you may be served with an order from the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to cover your floors with carpet.