Pest control in sectional title schemes can be challenging. Shared walls, communal gardens, refuse areas, parking facilities and drainage systems mean that pests can move easily between units and common property. Cockroaches, ants, rodents, mosquitoes, flies, termites and bedbugs can all become problems if conditions are favourable. The good news is that most pest infestations can be reduced through preventative maintenance,...
One of the biggest challenges faced by trustees and managing agents is dealing with residents who refuse to comply with the rules of a sectional title scheme. Whether it is persistent noise, unauthorised pets, illegal parking, alterations without approval or nuisance behaviour, failing to address rule violations can quickly lead to conflict within the community. Fortunately, South Africa's Sectional Titles Schemes...
Property Owners' Associations (POAs) play a vital role in the management of many residential estates, commercial office parks, industrial parks, and mixed-use developments across South Africa. Their purpose is to protect the value of the development, maintain shared infrastructure and ensure that the community is managed efficiently and fairly. What is a Property Owners' Association? A Property Owners' Association is a legal...
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...