There are over 52,000 body corporates in Queensland, where disputes are common.

If you own property, or invest, in this area, knowing your rights is important. Disputes are becoming more common and getting expert advice can help solve issues early.

How to Resolve Disputes

Any dispute should first seek a self-resolution. If self-resolution fails, you can apply for a formal dispute resolution process through legal avenues. This is often the point where matters become complex, so seeking professional and legal advice becomes essential.

Who does what in a Body Corporate?

A Body Corporate has key roles:

• Unit/Lot Owners: Pay levies, maintain their unit, and follow rules dictated by the Body Corporate.
• Body Corporate Committee: Are owners within the Body Corporate. Represents all owners and makes decisions as the Committee. Responsible for the overall management of the scheme.
• Body Corporate Manager: Generally engaged by the Body Corporate to maintain common areas, collect levies, arrange repairs, and handle finances. Assists in communication between the Owners.

Clear communication between these groups is key to avoiding disputes.

Common financial reasons for disputes

Body Corporate disputes can involve a range of issues between various parties. Financial disputes in a Body Corporate commonly arise from:

• Unpaid levies and fees.
• Disagreements with budget allocation and/or spending.
• Lack of financial transparency.
• Mismanagement of funds.

Pilot Partners help resolve complex financial Body Corporate disputes within litigation matters.

In the past year, we have been engaged to:

• Act as a Body Corporate Administrator.
• Review and trace transactions of the Body Corporate to ensure they were appropriate and in accordance with the Body Corporate Agreement.
• Investigate suspected fraud, errors, and financial mismanagement.

Tips for Owners

Some simple tips for Unit/Lot Owners to avoid disputes and costly resolutions include:

1. Ask questions. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or for information from your Body Corporate Committee and/or Manager.
2. Choose the right service providers. Do your research before appointing them and ensure they can deliver the service and understand your requirements.
3. Stay involved. Attend meetings and keep yourself informed.
4. Seek legal advice as and when necessary.

Learn More

To learn more about how Pilot Partners can assist with providing solutions for a Body Corporate, contact Cameron Woodcroft at cwoodcroft@pilotpartners.com.au or call (07) 3023 1300.