Resources

FROM OUR BLOG

Facing Eskom’s proposed 36.1% electricity hike in 2025: how our solutions could be a game changer

Eskom’s proposed electricity price hike of 36.1% in 2025 looms large over South African households, businesses, and community schemes. If approved, the increase will hit communities already grappling with high living costs and economic strain, leaving many struggling to keep up with rising utility bills.

18 November 2024 Legal and Advisory, Update

Sequestration and judicial discretion

Dura lex, sed lex is a Latin phrase meaning “the law is hard, but it is the law”.[1] This legal maxim captures the principle that law must be applied and enforced, even when the outcome may be harsh or regrettable.[2] In Les Misérables, Victor Hugo explores this theme through characters like Inspector Javert, who embodies the unyielding rigidity of the law in contrast to the compassion often needed in justice.

18 November 2024 Legal and Advisory

Trustee troubles: Personal costs and indemnity

In sectional title schemes and bodies corporate, trustees occupy a critical role. They have to balance their fiduciary duties with the potential personal risks inherent in their position. These risks include financial risks.

18 November 2024 Legal and Advisory, Update

It’s just not cricket: cost orders against CSOS and its adjudicators

The 2019 Cricket World Cup Final between England and New Zealand was marked by an umpiring controversy that left a lasting impact on the cricketing world.[1]

30 October 2024 Water Management

Water shedding in South Africa: what homeowners need to know

As South Africa bids farewell to load shedding, there’s a new term emerging in the public discourse: water shedding. While it may seem like a distant concern for many, the reality is that water shortages are becoming a significant challenge for the country.

29 October 2024 Funding and Treasury, Legal and Advisory

Understanding sectional title levies: A comprehensive guide for trustees and managing agents

In the world of sectional title ownership, levies are a critical financial mechanism that ensures the proper functioning and maintenance of shared spaces and facilities.

29 October 2024 Funding and Treasury, Legal and Advisory

Understanding levy statements and accuracy in sectional title schemes

In the realm of sectional title schemes in South Africa, accurate levy billing is crucial for maintaining financial transparency and fostering trust among owners. Levy statements, which outline the contributions required from each owner to support the scheme's financial health, can sometimes lead to disputes if they are inaccurate.

23 October 2024 Legal and Advisory, Update

Body corporate legal battle over construction defects

In Swahili, “Asante” means “thank you”, a common and heartfelt way to express gratitude in Swahili-speaking regions. It is appropriate in various contexts, from daily interactions to formal occasions. However, on 20 September 2024, it is unlikely that the Body Corporate of Asante used this expression of gratitude.

2 October 2024 Solar and Efficient

Are solar and battery backup solutions still worth it in community schemes?

In recent years, South Africans have grown accustomed to load shedding, but with significant improvements in the country’s energy supply, many are now wondering whether their investment in solar energy and battery backup solutions is still worth it.

26 September 2024 Funding and Treasury, Legal and Advisory

The annual budget: your roadmap to financial stability

“I wonder which way I ought to go!” - Alice in Wonderland. Unlike Alice’s approach for a body corporate, its trustees, unit owners, and managing agents, managing a sectional title scheme making this type of crucial decision, requires careful financial planning.

26 September 2024 Community, Legal and Advisory

Building stronger communities: handling domestic violence in sectional title schemes

"Good fences make good neighbours." This famous line from Robert Frost's 1914 poem “Mending Walls” highlights the idea that clear boundaries help maintain harmony between people. However, as urban living evolves and people reside in increasingly close quarters, the metaphorical fences of Frost’s time seem to dissolve, exposing residents to new challenges. One of these challenges is dealing with domestic violence within sectional title schemes.