Resources

FROM OUR BLOG

Affordable project funding for community schemes: overcoming financial pressure in a complex economic climate

The current economic climate has brought significant financial pressures for individuals, businesses and community schemes alike. Rising interest rates and increased living costs have rendered many individuals and families hard-pressed to maintain a balanced budget, let alone establish financial reserves for unforeseen circumstances.

A smiling young female holding a set of housekeys

26 July 2023 Community, Update

A community for women to thrive

As Women's Month approaches, we take pride in acknowledging the growing trend of single female property buyers in South Africa. Over the past few years, Lightstone has reported a steady increase in the number of women becoming property owners, with half of all property transfers now being made to female buyers.

A group foto of the smiling group of STS volunteers in front of the entrance to the Alberton Old Age Home

18 July 2023 Community

Making a meaningful impact for Mandela Day

On July 18, we celebrated Nelson Mandela Day, a day of service that celebrates the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. We were honoured to support the Alberton Old Age Home as our Mandela Day initiative, bringing joy and love to the residents who call it home.

A hard hat and safety equipment in front of construction scaffolding

4 July 2023 Legal and Advisory

Occupational Health and Safety in community schemes

Scheme executives of community schemes hold significant responsibility in ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and its Regulations. However, the extent of their obligations and duties requires careful examination of the specific capacity in which the community scheme operates in different scenarios.

30 June 2023 Legal and Advisory

Community scheme disputes: CSOS or the courts first?

Disputes within community schemes are a common occurrence. When attempts to resolve these disputes amicably fail, parties often find themselves contemplating whether to approach the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) or directly seek resolution through the courts.

A group of smiling people standing nezt to a wall holding laptops, smart phones and tablets.

29 June 2023 Smart Technology

Enhancing cybersecurity for a safer digital environment

In today's interconnected world, robust cybersecurity measures are more critical than ever. Scams, hacking, and phishing attempts are reported daily, affecting individuals and large corporations alike. Compliance with POPIA and data protection is paramount.

Pergola and patio with sun shining through the roof

16 June 2023 Legal and Advisory

Raising the roof: the pergola saga

In the case of Wilds Homeowners' Association NPC v Pillay and Others on 12 April 2023, the Pretoria High Court considered a dispute over a pergola built by homeowners within the estate.

Solar panels on the roofs of garages and units in a sectional title scheme

6 June 2023 Solar and Efficient

Solar for residential complexes

The past cold months, tariff hikes, and unpredictable load-shedding issues have shown residential homeowners that it is a good idea to look into alternative electricity and heating solutions. Powering your home with a renewable energy source like solar has several benefits. With solar, you not only reduce your utility bill but also increase the value of your home and contribute to the green economy by reducing your carbon footprint.

1 June 2023 Legal and Advisory

Navigating the legal landscape: Trustee authority and cosmetics businesses in residential sectional title units

Are you a unit owner in a residential sectional title scheme and considering starting a cosmetics business from your home? Or perhaps you're interested in the legalities surrounding such a venture?

A large solar panel and battery energy storage container with high rise buildings in the background

25 May 2023 Solar and Efficient

Winter is coming - time to see the light

Load-shedding continues to be a persistent challenge in South Africa, causing disruptions to businesses and millions of citizens' daily lives. As the country enters the winter season, the likelihood of even higher stages of power cuts increases.

25 May 2023 Community, Uncategorised

Wonderful winter soup recipes to warm the soul

If you're looking for some comfort and warmth this winter, you might want to try some of these amazing soup recipes from our Solutions Consultant Team. Our team members are not only experts in providing quality solutions for sectional title schemes in South Africa, but also talented cooks who love to share their favourite dishes with us.

A photo of Willow, a female rhino at Care for Wild

25 May 2023 Community, Solar and Efficient, Uncategorised

Empowering conservation: efficient energy system sponsorship energises Care for Wild's mission

Care for Wild (CFW), the world's largest specialised orphaned rhino conservation facility, faced many challenges due to costly generators and an inefficient solar and battery system. However, in 2021, Sectional Title Solutions (STS), BC Funding Solutions (BCFS), and Bright Light (BLS), donated a complete solar system worth R2 million to the sanctuary.