Renovating a sectional title property: what you need to know

One of the characteristics of sectional titles is rules and regulations about renovations that may and may not be done, especially if they have an impact on the exterior of the building. The reasons for these rules include ensuring the structural soundness of a building (particularly in the case of a block of flats) and making sure that the building or complex retains a consistent look. Having a standard look within a development makes your property a desirable investment and can help to sustain or increase property values. Before starting any renovations or improvements to your home, you need to make sure that your plans do not contravene any of the rules applied by the trustees of your sectional title scheme.

Alterations and renovations: what's the difference?

If you own a unit in a sectional title scheme, you may find that the rules make a distinction between alterations and renovations. Alterations refer to more serious modifications, such as structural alterations, the removal of walls and work that will change the way the building looks from the outside. Renovations, on the other hand, involves internally redecorating your home. Examples of renovations include retiling a room, repainting your home or installing new cupboards. You are less likely to need permission from the trustees of the body corporate to carry out renovations than alterations, although there will still be rules in place as to when and how the work can be done.

Common rules related to aesthetics

There will typically be a clause in the list of rules compiled by the trustees of the body corporate that protects the uniformity of the block or complex's appearance. This means, for example, that you will need permission if you want to enclose your balcony. You are likely to need permission before having a new security gate or screen door fitted. It may also mean that permission is required for the installation of a satellite dish, and it is unlikely that you will be allowed to repaint your balcony in the colour of your choice. Since outside areas such as balconies and patios can often be seen either by other residents or from the road, rules apply as to how these areas can be changed or renovated.

Rules about structural support

This is particularly relevant if you live in a block of flats. If you were to decide to remove a wall to combine two small rooms into one, you may not be aware that the wall is essential to the structural support of the building. It is therefore likely that before allowing any work of this nature to go ahead, the trustees of the body corporate will require that a structural integrity assessment be carried out.

When renovations may be done

As is the case with renovations to any property, no work may begin until the transfer process is complete and you are the official owner of the home. Because renovations invariably come with plenty of noise and mess, there will be restrictions within a sectional title as to when renovations may be done. In addition, other residents will likely need to be informed well in advance of your intention to renovate your home. There will likely be rules as to the hours when renovation teams are allowed to be working on your property, and when building refuse may be removed.

Know the rules before you get started

Every complex has its own set of rules, and in certain complexes, electrical and plumbing work can only be undertaken by certified professionals. This is to protect both the renovator's property and that of their neighbours. A faulty plumbing job, for example, can cause disaster not only for the person who had the work done, but also for those who live on the floor below them.

The fact that there are strict rules about alterations and renovations in a sectional title property is one of the things that make life in complexes and blocks of flats harmonious. To find out more about sectional title living, or to find the sectional title home that's perfect for you and your family, contact Jawitz Properties today.