Good financial governance is the foundation of every successful body corporate. When owners can see how their levies are managed and know that funds are being used responsibly, it builds confidence and cooperation across the scheme. That is where regular audits and transparent reporting come in. Annual financial statement requirements Under the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act (STSMA), every body corporate must...

Ensuring the safety of residents is a top priority in sectional title communities. But effective security does not have to come with a huge price tag. At Stonewood Properties, we help communities implement practical, cost-effective strategies that protect residents and property values without overspending. Understanding your security needs Every community is different. Factors such as location, layout, and crime trends determine which...

In sectional title schemes, disputes over unpaid levies are all too common, leading to a big question: Can bodies corporate cut off the electricity of owners who fall behind on payments? Earlier this year, the Gauteng High Court tackled this issue in two cases, offering insight into the legal complexities involved. A closer look In 2022, a case came before the court...

Owners can be left frustrated when they have planned an alteration or renovation and then realize that they require the trustees’ approval before any work can be carried out. This is why it is important that owners familiarize themselves with the rules of the body corporate so that planned alterations and renovation can proceed without any unnecessary delays. Below are some...

As a body corporate cannot function without funds, managing the scheme’s funds is one of the most important responsibilities the trustees have. While the trustees make decisions on how and when the funds must be allocated, they do not actually manage the funds themselves - this function falls on the managing agent. This is where problems sometimes arise and it is...