Strata landlords will have to disclose certain information to tenants in the new rental certificates. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Landlords in strata developments are being urged to order the new Unit Titles Rental Certificate required for their properties to avoid delays when the measure comes into force.
The mandatory certificate from strata managers will disclose essential information about the strata complex to tenants, such as whether the building is subject to an embedded network for energy or data, the level of insulation and swimming pool compliance. No new lease can be entered into without the certificate, which will be valid for five years.
The new requirement is part of strata reforms in the Housing and Consumer Affairs Legislation Amendment Act, which was passed by the Legislative Assembly in June but is still to be enacted.
The Strata Community Association ACT says the sector has enjoyed a grace period but the requirement could be notified anytime between now and 9 January 2025 when it will automatically come into force.
Under the legislation, a strata manager will have 14 days to provide the certificate but up to six weeks if it is a first request.
Association ACT president Chris Miller said time was running out to be on the front foot in gathering the required information for these certificates.
“It is important to acknowledge the critical need for collaboration between property managers and strata managers throughout the implementation of the reforms to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any potential disruptions in leasing activities,” he said.
Mr Miller warned that an Owners Corporation would have up to six weeks to provide a mandatory certificate upon the first request, meaning that some landlords risk significant delays in being able to enter into a new lease with a tenant.
The Association was calling on all property managers to contact their strata manager to request a certificate well in advance of the end of their current leases.
“There is little risk for landlords in organising a rental certificate earlier than required, as once issued, the certificate remains valid for a period of five years,” Mr Miller said.
“By working together closely, both parties can address any potential challenges proactively, ensuring that the benefits of the reforms are fully realised without causing any undue inconvenience to unit owners, tenants or other stakeholders.”
Property management firm Vantage Strata said considerable delays would be inevitable if it had to respond to a spike in requests when the requirement was notified.
It is offering a deal to property managers and landlords if they order a certificate before 30 September.
It will guarantee the certificate will be issued within five business days from when the requirement is notified, reducing the waiting time by at least nine days or potentially up to five weeks.
As well, the certificate will be valid for five years from the date it is issued rather than the date it is requested.
Vantage said it had been told the cost of the certificate would be a set fee of slightly more than $300 plus GST, but those who take up the offer would pay $300 plus GST even.
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