Moving in or out of a strata building? What every resident needs to know

Moving house is a big task, and when you are moving in or out of a strata or body corporate building, there are a few extra steps to keep in mind. These requirements help protect common property, support safety and ensure the process runs smoothly for you and your neighbours. With a little preparation, your move can be organised and stress-free.

Understand your building’s By-Laws

Strata/Body Corporate buildings have specific by-laws which govern how a move should occur. These may include:

• Permissible moving hours
• Noise restrictions
• Approved access points
• Lift use and protection
• Bonds

We recommend requesting these as a first step in your moving process. Understanding the rules ahead of time helps you avoid delays and ensures your move is compliant from the start.

Book your move early

Some buildings require residents to book a move-in or move-out timeslot, especially when lift access or loading bays are involved. Aim to secure your booking at least two weeks in advance. This gives you and your removalists time to prepare and allows building management to arrange any necessary measures such as lift inspections or protective equipment.

Once your booking is confirmed, share the building rules or protocols with your movers. This helps avoid delays, prevent accidental damage, and keep the process compliant.

Parking and access to loading zones

Access and parking can make a big difference to how smoothly your move unfolds. Before moving day, check:

• Height restrictions for moving trucks
• Approved parking zones or loading bays
• How long vehicles are allowed to stay in those areas
• Any upcoming building maintenance that may affect access

Knowing these details in advance ensures your movers can operate efficiently and access the building without disrupting neighbours.

Protecting common property

Most strata buildings require protective measures to prevent unintentional damage during a move. These may include:

• Protective elevator curtains
• Temporary floor coverings
• Wall or corner guards
• Controlled access points to minimise impact on shared spaces

Using the correct protection safeguards common property and reduces the risk of repair costs being passed on to you. It also ensures the building remains safe, functional and well-maintained for all.

Disposing of unwanted items

Large or bulky items should not be left beside bins or in communal areas. If you need to dispose of furniture, appliances or other oversized items, arrange appropriate disposal through the building manager or local council. This ensures the building remains safe, tidy and compliant with waste rules.

If you are unsure about any part of the process, reach out to your Strata Manager. By communicating with them early, they can guide you through the requirements, help you understand your obligations and support you in planning a smooth and respectful move.