Strata Disputes Highlight 27/04/2006
Need For Good Management
Just as there has been a growth in the popularity of strata titled living there can be an accompanying upsurge in disputes. Disagreement amongst owners sometimes arises and the reasons behind them can be many.
Disputes can range from such seemingly small matters as an improperly parked car and move on to others like night-time noise. At the higher end of the scale can be more weighty concerns such as plans for an alteration to a unit, or intentions to refurbish grounds or other amenities. But, when dealt with quickly, most problems are smoothly dissolved, with the key to a successful resolution often depending on the quality of the strata manager assigned to the building.
Not all strata management companies are up to the job. And some buildings have an Owner’s Corporation (the modern equivalent to what used to be the Body Corporate) that struggles to undertake the tasks themselves, a feat that often results in varying degrees of success.
Mr Richard Tooker, a strata property specialist, says the cost sharing that continues to draw people to strata titled living places quality management at the very forefront of this very modern lifestyle.
He says that his company places great emphasis on the need for speed in resolving disputes noting that timely action can often prevent a small issue from developing into a large one.
Mr Tooker’s company, New South Wales Strata Management, oversees a wide array of complexes ranging from residential units, townhouses and villas, commercial units, office blocks, professional suites, and even marinas.
“Experience has shown that the best method of dealing with disputes is to bring the involved parties together so that there can be an open airing of grievances before a problem can become entrenched. An outside strata property specialist would obviously have an advantage over an insider from an Owner’s Corporation, someone who could appear to have a vested interest in the outcome.
“An independent outsider with an understanding of the issues and having familiarity with the ways to bridge problems can smooth a tense situation. This can allow agreement to be reached more easily. It combines understanding with knowledge and can be a highly valuable attribute to have on hand.”
As a strata managing agent, licensed under the Property, Stock and Business Act and with the necessary training and experience to efficiently perform the function of an Owner’s Corporation under the revamped Strata Schemes Management Act 1996, the Company also knows what follow-on actions can be taken in the event an accord is not reached.
“The Strata Schemes Office can assist with mediation and adjudication but people need to appreciate that taking this line can involve considerable complexities. Having a strata law specialist lend a hand can be a preferable option.”
Mr Tooker says not all strata management companies provide a comprehensive range of services and that an Owner’s Corporation in search of assistance could benefit from asking if a tailored service can be provided to meet the needs of their specific strata, community or neighbourhood scheme.
New South Wales Strata Management (formerly Gilmour Strata Management) commenced business in early 1991, as a member of the highly respected J A Gilmour & Sons group of companies. Licensed solely and specialising only in strata management services, the company has steadily grown to become one of the largest such organisations in New South Wales.
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