Another strata trap sprung - dealing with defects

·30 min·3 clips

A Four Corners TV exposé on strata traps doubled this podcast's downloads overnight.

The episode begins with hosts Jimmy Thompson and Sue Williams reflecting on a recent Four Corners TV report on strata defects, which doubled their podcast downloads. They introduce an interview with Acting Building Commissioner Matthew Press. Press discusses Project Intervene, a pilot program using new powers under the RAB Act to resolve defects in buildings completed in the last six years. He explains that the program involves inspections, draft rectification orders, and undertakings with developers, supervised by an undertakings manager. Press reveals that Project Intervene has a 40% success rate in resolving defects, compared to a 17% success rate for owners pursuing litigation alone. He notes that 10% of cases cannot proceed because developers have gone into liquidation. Press outlines the types of serious defects the Building Commission focuses on, including waterproofing issues, fire safety systems, and structural problems like cracks in basements. He mentions that waterproofing defects have decreased by 20% in the last four years. Press acknowledges challenges, such as some apartment owners refusing entry to inspectors due to privacy concerns or lack of confidence. He discusses the role of undertakings managers in ensuring fair solutions, avoiding overly expensive 'Rolls-Royce' fixes suggested by some expert reports. Press touches on fire safety accreditation under the F-PASS scheme and improvements in that area. He confirms he is acting as Building Commissioner while recruitment is ongoing and highlights ongoing reforms like ISERT and LDI. After the interview, the hosts discuss the current limbo in strata regulation, with the Strata commissioner sidelined and concerns about the role being abolished. They delve into issues with vertically integrated strata management companies, alleging that these companies inflate costs through hidden fees, citing an example where a $200,000 remediation job was billed at $800,000. The hosts question whether Fair Trading has the power or will to order these companies to divest. The episode concludes with thanks to Press and listeners.

As heard by us

A timely strata discussion about defects, public attention, and the confidence needed to pursue repairs.

Flat Chat Wrap uses the strong response to its Linton Besser interview as a way into a practical, grounded discussion of strata defects and the confidence owners need before they act.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want to understand why strata defect repairs can get stuck when a lot or bathroom may be out of action for longer than anyone likes?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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