Insurance protects one of your biggest investments, but many sectional title owners and HOA members only think about it when something goes wrong. Understanding how your community scheme's insurance works can help you avoid costly misunderstandings and ensure you are properly protected. Know what is covered In most sectional title schemes, the body corporate is responsible for insuring the buildings and common...
In July 2025, the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) introduced its Consolidated Practice Directives 1 of 2025. These directives replace previous CSOS circulars, guidelines, and practice directives, creating a single reference document for community schemes across South Africa. The aim is to improve consistency, governance, compliance, and dispute resolution within sectional title schemes and homeowners' associations. For sectional title owners, understanding...
Living in a sectional title scheme or HOA means sharing space, rules, and responsibilities with many different people. Even in well-managed communities, conflict is common - usually over noise, parking, pets, levies, or maintenance. Understanding why conflict happens can help trustees and managing agents respond more effectively and prevent issues from escalating. Why conflict is so common in shared living People naturally...
Trustee elections are one of the most important parts of running a sectional title scheme or HOA. A fair election process builds trust, encourages participation, and ensures that the right people are chosen to lead the community. The Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act (STSMA) and its Prescribed Management Rules (PMRs) set out the legal requirements, but many schemes still struggle...
Climate change is no longer a distant concern - it is already affecting South African sectional title schemes and HOAs. From rising insurance premiums to water shortages and extreme weather, trustees must begin planning now to safeguard their buildings, budgets, and residents. Here’s how climate change is reshaping community living and what your scheme can do about it. Rising insurance risks Insurers are...