PROJECT 915: Guideline Blues

Renovation for strata titled properties can really be a hassle. Firstly, before commencement of all redecoration and reconstruction work, permission will need to be issued by the condominium management office. Basically, this is just a way they get to control the safety, orderliness and constancy of the surroundings. Surely we would not want owners to simply knock down any structural walls that could compromise the safety of all residents. Which is why they would require the submitting of renovation plans to them too. But what I really do not like is that (in this case), the management requires a RMxxxx amount as deposit for renovation commencement and refundable upon ‘satisfactory’ completion of works and ‘compliance’ of all conditions mentioned in their ‘Renovation, Delivery & Removal Guidelines’. That’s basically the do’s and don’ts of how and where to instigate decoration overhaul. Ordinary people like us are already short of cash for any renovation and these people necessitate a large amount on us for them to Photostat guidelines for us? Even the design, specification and color of our metal front grille would require their ‘compliance’! These people are nuts! It’s it just us or this is a norm for all condominium projects? Are all condominium management a pain in the a**? Do comment and let me know.