Window Safety In Strata Schemes

To prevent children falling from windows, all strata buildings in NSW must be fitted with devices that enable their windows to be locked at 12.5cm when the devices are engaged.

Owners Corporations must have devices installed on all common property windows above the ground floor by 13 March 2018.

Residents will still be able to open their windows, however they will have the security of knowing that when the locks are engaged, children will be protected.

The laws apply to openable windows in a building if the internal floor is more than 2m above the ground floor outside. Note that the requirements now also apply if the internal floor is more than 2m above the surface of an external structure below the window.

The alternative is security screens, such as bars or grills on the windows so long as they have gaps no bigger than 12.5cm. Flyscreens do not comply unless they are the reinforced security type and capable of resisting the very strong outward pressure which would prevent a child falling through.

If the window safety requirements are not met by 13 March 2018, Owners Corporations face fines. Leaving it to the last minute places your scheme at risk of not complying by the due date and leaves young children vulnerable to falls from windows in your scheme.

Lot owners may install a window safety device in their property at any time, however must notify the Owners Corporation know.

For further information regarding the window safety requirements in a Strata Scheme please speak with your Strata Manager.