Quick Answer
A strata title WA search reveals the scheme by-laws, encumbrances, common property boundaries, and strata company obligations attached to a unit or apartment. Buyers must verify these details before signing, because obligations and restrictions on a strata title differ markedly from a standard green title. Order a current title search and the strata plan to see the full picture.
Green Title, Survey-Strata, and Strata Title in WA: Know the Difference
Western Australia uses three main title structures for multi-lot or shared-property developments. The structure on your title determines what you own and what you share.
- Green title (freehold): Each lot has its own defined land parcel with no shared common property on the title. The owner holds the lot outright.
- Survey-strata: A hybrid form. The land is subdivided into survey-strata lots with boundaries defined by survey. Common property areas may exist and are managed by a strata company.
- Strata title: Created under WA strata legislation. Individual lots (units) are defined by cubic space within a building, not just land area. Common property—driveways, gardens, structural walls—is shared and managed by a strata company.
Strata titles carry by-laws, levies, and common-property obligations that green titles do not. A title search strata title will flag these, but you need to know what to look for.
What to Check on a Strata Title Property Title Western Australia
Scheme By-Laws
By-laws govern how the property can be used—pet restrictions, renovation rules, noise limits, short-stay letting, and parking. By-laws are registered against the strata title and appear in the scheme documents referenced on the title. If by-laws prohibit something important to you, that restriction binds you from settlement day.
Encumbrances and Caveats
A strata title WA can carry encumbrances, easements, or caveats just like a green title. Check the encumbrances section for:
- Easements over common property (stormwater, sewer, power)
- Caveats lodged by third parties claiming an interest
- Restrictive covenants limiting use
Caveats on a strata title are especially risky—they can signal disputes over ownership, unpaid debts, or builder claims. Review the caveat details and consider seeking professional advice before proceeding.
Common Property and Lot Boundaries
The strata plan shows the boundaries of each lot and what is common property. Walls, floors, and ceilings between units are typically common property—meaning the strata company is responsible for structural repairs. Check whether:
- Your lot includes a car bay, storeroom, or courtyard
- Boundaries are defined by surveyed lines or by building structure
- Any exclusive-use by-laws grant you sole access to part of common property
Strata Company Obligations and Levies
The title references the strata company, but levy amounts and sinking fund details appear in strata company records, not on the title. The title search tells you a strata scheme exists; you then request strata company records separately to check levies, reserves, and pending resolutions.
Mining Interests
In Western Australia, mining interests can affect any title type—including strata. If the title shows a mining interest or Crown reservation, mineral rights may belong to the Crown or a third party. This limits what you can do with the land and may affect future development. Rural strata titles carry higher exposure to mining interests.
When to Order Additional Documents
A current title search ($74.50 AUD through TitleFinder) shows registered details, encumbrances, and interests at the time of search. For strata properties, you will almost always also need:
- Strata plan or survey-strata plan: Shows lot boundaries, common property, and by-laws. Order when the title references a strata or survey-strata plan number.
- Dealings and instruments: If the title lists registered dealings (easements, covenants), order the instrument to read the full terms.
- Strata company records: Not available through a title search. Request directly from the strata company or managing agent.
Comparison: Green Title vs Survey-Strata vs Strata Title in WA
| Feature | Green Title | Survey-Strata | Strata Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot definition | Surveyed land parcel | Surveyed land parcel | Cubic space in building |
| Common property | None on title | May exist | Always exists |
| Strata company | Not applicable | If common property exists | Always required |
| By-laws | None on title | If strata company exists | Always registered |
| Levies | Not applicable | If common property exists | Always required |
| Mining interest risk | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Practical Checklist: Strata Title WA Purchase
- Order a current title search to confirm ownership, encumbrances, and caveats
- Identify the strata or survey-strata plan number on the title
- Order the strata plan to read by-laws, lot boundaries, and common property
- Check for easements, caveats, and restrictive covenants on the title
- Review any mining interests or Crown reservations
- Request strata company records for levy amounts, sinking fund, and pending motions
- Confirm exclusive-use by-laws for car bays, storerooms, or courtyards
- Verify whether the scheme has resolved any major building-defect or insurance claims
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a strata title and a survey-strata title in WA?
A strata title defines lots by cubic space within a building and always includes common property managed by a strata company. A survey-strata title defines lots by surveyed land boundaries and may or may not include common property. Both appear on a title search strata title, but the plan structure and your obligations differ.
Can I find strata levy amounts on the property title?
No. The title confirms a strata scheme exists and references the strata company, but levy amounts, sinking fund balances, and financial records are held by the strata company. You need to request those records separately after confirming the scheme via a title search.
Do mining interests apply to strata title properties in WA?
Yes. Mining interests or Crown reservations can appear on any WA title, including strata. If the title shows a mining interest, mineral rights may be held by a third party. Check the interest details and consider what it means for your intended use of the property.
This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your transaction.
Order the right TitleFinder document
Use this guide as a reference, then order the actual record that answers your question:
- WA Title Search — $79.90
- WA Survey Search — $85.90
- WA Document Search — $91.80
If you are unsure, start with the current title search, then add the plan or instrument if the title points to one.
Need the title search? Use the TitleFinder product links above to order the current title, plan, instrument or state-specific property record you actually need.