Definition:

Solar Control Window Film (often referred to as tint) reduces heat and provides increased daytime privacy.  

Summary:

In many strata schemes, the windows typically form part of the common property of the complex and any changes to them will impact upon the exterior look of the property. Therefore, any changes to windows, including the application of a tint, will need approval.

If an application is made by a lot owner (and there is no by-law relating to windows) this will need to be discussed and decided at a General Meeting of the Strata Company.

More Information

The first step is to submit a motion to the secretary of the Council of Owner (or to your Strata Manager). This will then be put on the agenda for discussion at the next General Meeting of the Strata Company. It's helpful to provide any relevant information which can be included with the notice and agenda pack.

Example wording: "The owner of lot 1 may install 3m Climate Control 75 window film to all windows within the lot".

At the General Meeting and assuming they have a quorum, the lot owner will then have the opportunity to answer questions, and "persuade" the other owners that they should vote in favour of their motion. They will require a resolution without dissent (no votes cast against), to proceed. (This may change after the introduction of the STAA 2018 as energy saving initiatives will typically only require a special resolution).

Excerpt From Act

STA 1985  (Schedule 2)
14 . Appearance of lot

A proprietor, occupier or other resident of a lot shall not, without the written consent of the strata company, maintain within the lot anything visible from outside the lot that, viewed from outside the lot, is not in keeping with the rest of the building.

Example Case:

Phoebe was an owner in a 67 lot, 7 storey complex in Burswood. Her unit was on the 6th floor and all her windows and the balcony had a NW aspect. This meant that before getting home from work in the late afternoon in the Summer months, her unit became very hot.

She wanted to have a solar control window film applied to the inside of all her windows as this would reduce the internal temperature by 5°c. The application of the film would make the windows appear "darker" and due to this change in external appearance of the building, she had to seek permission.

She submitted an application and motion to her Strata Manager, who then forwarded this onto the Council of Owners.

In addition to Phoebe's motion, the Council of Owners also decided that a motion for a new by-law covering solar control window film should be included on the agenda. Any future applications could then be approved without the need for a General Meeting, provided the tint conformed to the pre-selected option, to maintain uniformity.