Parking in strata: Common issues and how to resolve them

Parking might seem simple, but in a strata community, it’s often one of the most common causes of frustration. From blocked driveways to visitor parking woes, understanding the rules and knowing how to resolve issues can make life much smoother for everyone.

At Centric Strata, we’ve helped countless schemes navigate parking disputes — and we’re here to share our expert advice so you can avoid unnecessary conflict and keep the peace in your building.

Common Parking Issues in Strata

1. Parking in the Wrong Spot: This can happen when residents or their guests park in someone else’s lot or use common property spaces without approval.

2. Visitor Parking Misuse: Visitor spaces are often a hot topic — they’re meant for short-term guests, but sometimes residents use them for convenience.

3. Blocked Access: Vehicles parked in driveways, fire lanes, or in front of garages can cause safety hazards and inconvenience.

4. Storage of Non-Vehicles: Using car spaces for storage (boxes, equipment, trailers) can breach by-laws and cause disputes.

   
   

Parking in strata complexes

What the Law Says

In NSW, the use of parking spaces in strata schemes is generally governed by the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and your scheme’s by-laws. These by-laws outline:

• Where you can and can’t park

• How visitor parking is managed

• What happens if someone breaches the rules

Importantly, the owners corporation can enforce these by-laws — including issuing notices to comply and, in some cases, fines for ongoing breaches.

How to Resolve Parking Issues

1. Know Your By-Laws: Before raising a concern, check the by-laws so you know exactly what’s allowed.

2. Communicate First: Often, a polite conversation can resolve a parking issue without escalating things further.

3. Contact Your Strata Manager: If the problem continues, your strata manager can step in to address it formally and ensure the by-laws are enforced.

4. Formal Action as a Last Resort: For repeated breaches, the owners corporation can issue formal notices or fines. This is always a last step after trying to resolve things amicably.

Centric Strata’s Approach

We believe in proactive, fair, and transparent solutions. When it comes to parking disputes, we:

• Help clarify the by-laws so everyone understands the rules

• Facilitate respectful communication between residents

• Take action where needed to ensure compliance and safety

Final Word

Parking in strata doesn’t have to be a headache. With clear rules, open communication, and fair enforcement, everyone can enjoy convenient and safe access to their home.

If your building is struggling with ongoing parking issues, contact the team at Centric Strata — we’ll help you find practical, lasting solutions.