A Queenstown condominium resident experienced an unusual car accident in September, blaming a rooster for a collision that caused $4,200 in vehicle damage. The resident, identified as KB, also received a bill for $352 from the condo management to cover damage to a wall.
Unexpected Encounter
According to KB, the incident occurred as she was driving towards the condominium carpark gantry. “A rooster suddenly appeared across my path. I slowed down immediately and went through the gantry,” she recounted. While checking to see if the bird was injured, her vehicle collided with a wall at the carpark entrance.
The incident has raised concerns among residents regarding wildlife within the condo estate. KB stated that the management claims there have been “no sightings of roosters in the condo,” but she shared video evidence of chickens roaming the grounds.
Dispute with Management
KB is disputing the $352 charge for the wall damage, questioning whether the wall was already compromised before the accident. She claims the management has refused to provide proof of the wall’s prior condition. Despite repeated attempts to contact the condo management, her emails have gone unanswered.
Frustrated with the lack of response, KB has escalated the matter to the Strata Titles Board. She expressed feeling unfairly penalized, stating, “I already suffered a $4,200 loss. Instead of addressing the root cause — wild animals roaming inside the property — I was told to pay another $352.”
Looking Ahead
The Strata Titles Board will likely review the evidence presented by both KB and the condo management. A possible next step could involve an independent assessment of the wall’s condition prior to the incident. It is also possible the board could mediate a resolution between the resident and the management. The condo management may need to address the issue of wildlife roaming the property to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the car accident?
The resident, KB, stated that a rooster unexpectedly appeared in her path as she was driving towards the condo carpark gantry, leading to a collision with a wall.
How much money is the resident disputing with the condo management?
KB is disputing a $352 bill from the condo management for damage to a wall, in addition to the $4,200 in repairs she already incurred for her vehicle.
What has the resident done to resolve the issue?
After receiving no response from the condo management, KB has escalated the matter to the Strata Titles Board.
How can condominium communities balance the need for open spaces with the safety and security of residents and their property?
