Project Spotlight: Triple-Wide Strata Carport — Northern Beaches

Location: Northern Beaches, NSW
Year: 2025
Structure: Triple-wide carport, steel frame, Colorbond Ironstone, ceiling panel roofing
Client: Strata committee

Background

This project came to us through a strata committee. The complex had an existing carport structure that had reached the end of its serviceable life — the committee made the decision to have it removed and start fresh with a properly engineered replacement.

Getting a strata committee to agree on anything takes effort. Getting them to agree on removing an existing structure, approving a new one, selecting a builder, and then executing the project — that takes a builder they can trust to make the process straightforward.

The Structure: Three Bays Wide

The new carport needed to cover three parking bays — a significant span. The key structural challenge on a triple-wide carport is the front beam: spanning that full width without a centre post that would interrupt parking and force residents to manoeuvre around it.

We used steel posts and beams for this structure. Steel handles the longer span cleanly with a shallower beam depth than timber — meaning the roof sits lower and the proportions stay right. The Colorbond Ironstone finish gives the structure a sharp, contemporary look that suits the setting.

The roof is ceiling panel (insulated panel system) — the white underside reflects light into the parking area and gives the structure a finished, quality appearance. It also provides a level of insulation that keeps the space cooler and reduces noise from rain.

Working with a Strata Committee

Strata projects require more paperwork and process than a standard residential job, and that's fine — it's the nature of shared property.

For this project we provided:

• A detailed written quote with materials and specifications clearly listed
• Confirmation of our NSW Contractor Licence (353438C) and insurance documentation
• Assistance clarifying the planning pathway — confirming the structure qualified as exempt development and didn't require a DA
• A clear timeline so the committee could communicate with residents about access and disruption

The committee approved the works, the old structure came down, and the new one went up cleanly.

Why Steel for a Strata Carport?

On a strata property, the structure needs to last. The committee doesn't want to be revisiting this decision in 10 years.

Steel offers:

• Longevity — a well-built steel carport will outlast a timber equivalent in most conditions
• Low maintenance — no oiling, sealing, or checking for rot
• Span capability — handles three bays without a centre post
• Clean aesthetic — Colorbond colours are consistent and weatherfast

For strata, the lower ongoing maintenance burden is particularly important — it reduces the chance of future committee disputes about who is responsible for repairs.

The Result

Three bays, fully covered, properly built. A structure the committee can record in the strata register and not think about again for decades.

Is Your Strata Complex Considering a Carport?

We work with strata committees and strata managers regularly. We understand the approval process, the documentation requirements, and how to make the project easy for everyone involved.

Call us on 0468 093 569 or get a free quote.

MJ Leckie Carpentry — Licensed Carpenters, Lic 353438C