From Chaos to Clean: Waste Management That Works

High-density living often means limited space for waste disposal. Overflowing bins and untidy waste rooms not only diminish property appeal and value but also attract pests and pose health risks. Smart design and regular maintenance are key to keeping these areas functional and hygienic.

New Developments, New Waste Challenges

Freshly built strata properties often face unique waste issues, including excess cardboard and packaging, discarded flooring materials, blocked or damaged bin chutes, overflowing bins, and unsafe waste rooms.

ACT No Waste may refuse collections if bins or rooms are deemed unsafe. These problems are predictable but preventable, with proper planning and resident cooperation.

Setting Standards from Day One

To manage waste effectively in new developments, Strata Managers should implement daily site checks by a Building Manager or caretaker, approve flooring changes to prevent dumped materials, and schedule move-ins via a booking system.

First year budget planning should include extra waste/recycling collections, removal of excess recycling, bin chute maintenance, temporary bin rentals, bin room cleaning, clear signage, welcome pack guidance, and temporary skip bins for bulk waste.

These measures help ease the transition during the move-in phase and set expectations for long-term waste compliance.

Accountability Matters: Beyond Signs and Cameras

Once residents settle in, consistent adherence to waste guidelines is expected, but not always achieved. Strata committees often turn to additional signage, mass communications, and CCTV monitoring.

CCTV can deter improper dumping, but identifying specific offenders is tricky. A more effective solution is fob-access-only bin rooms, which link waste room access to individual units. This improves traceability while reducing the need for extensive surveillance, provided it doesn’t interfere with ACT No Waste or TCCS regulations.

Proactive planning and clear communication are the keys to a cleaner, safer strata living experience.

If your community is facing waste management issues or needs help with bulky waste collection, reach out to your Strata Manager.