Our panel is often asked to deal with a variety of issues relating to sectional title complexes, from problems between neighbours to maintenance of the common property. This week's reader question is a classic example of the latter. The reader explains that he has owned and lived in his unit for some time. Approximately two years ago, he approached the trustees of the complex about paving a dusty and unusable area adjacent to his unit. He was well aware that the area formed part of the … [Read more...] about Paving the way for common problems
rian du toit
Of Moral, Latent and Patent Defects
This week, our panel deals with a question from a reader grappling with the issue of moral defects versus latent and patent ones. The reader is currently renting a property, which is on the market and has been viewed by several potential buyers. When questioned by the viewers about possible issues or faults relating to the property, he has responded truthfully. Unfortunately, it appears that there are structural defects, which have caused the walls and tiles to crack. The reader’s … [Read more...] about Of Moral, Latent and Patent Defects
Tenant Powerless Over Unpaid Bills
A reader has approached our panel about a rental situation that has, quite literally, left her powerless. She writes that she has been renting a property for the last year or so. After a few months, the owner appointed an agent to handle rental matters, including the payment of municipal accounts. The reader dutifully began making her monthly payments via the agent. Unfortunately, it now appears that the municipality has cut off the electricity supply due to arrear utility payments. She … [Read more...] about Tenant Powerless Over Unpaid Bills
Unseating a complex chair
After experiencing ongoing problems with the chairperson of her homeowners' association (HOA), a reader asks our panel what the correct procedure is for unseating such a person. The reader says that, despite the HOA members having voted unanimously for her removal, she is continuing in the role. The chairperson contends her dismissal is merely temporary until a current dispute with her neighbour is settled. In such instances - where an HOA is formed as a non-profit company - the Companies … [Read more...] about Unseating a complex chair
