Sectional title developments typically have standardised designs and uniform materials are selected for windows and doors. Although windows and doors are part of a section, they effectively form part of the common property. While the management and maintenance of common property are the trustees’ responsibility, owners are responsible for 50% of the cost to maintain windows and doors. Replacing windows or doors When...

A body corporate is required to hold its annual general meeting (AGM) within 4 months after the end of its financial year. The meeting notice should be sent out at least 14 days prior to the meeting. All meetings other than the AGM are called special general meetings (SGM). The notice period required to hold SGMs is 30 days but this...

With the promulgation of the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act of 2011 (the Act), community schemes and its members are given an alternative forum where they may resolve their differences. Disputes between owners, with the trustees or with the managing agent may be lodged with the Ombud service for conciliation. The functions of CSOS The Community Schemes Ombud Service has a juristic nature,...

One of the most important decisions the members of a sectional title scheme must make every year is the appointment of trustees to manage the affairs of a body corporate. Unfortunately, it is not always given the consideration it deserves and internal conflict often results in members voting against candidates they dislike as opposed to voting for people based on...

A body corporate is a community of owners living in a complex where a harmonious living environment is expected. Members of a body corporate own an undivided share of the common property together with their units and contribute to the general expenses of the scheme via their levy contributions. It follows that owners expect to have a say in decisions made...