It is necessary to have strata by-laws. Strata by-laws establish a set of rules to ensure everyone who shares the property can enjoy it fairly and equally. Setting these rules is easy enough. However, enforcing them can be a little more challenging, which is why you need the right strata management services, on your side.
Let’s consider how you might deal with breaches of strata by-laws in an effective and responsible manner:
Codification – Defining the Rules for a Harmonious Community
Codification in strata refers to the process of establishing and collecting rules that govern the conduct of strata members and committees. These rules are often referred to as codes of conduct.
All residents and affected parties need to have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities within the strata property. This protects all parties within the strata scheme.
Therefore, before any strata by-laws can be enforced, they need to be drawn up and codified. If the by-laws are not clearly and comprehensively written and distributed to all the affected stakeholders, you can’t reasonably expect them to be upheld.
Informal Communication – Encouraging Open, Friendly Conversations
Generally, it’s best to address first-time offenders in a friendly and informal manner. After all, the aim of enforcing a strata title’s by-laws is to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable living arrangement for all.
Therefore, if breaches can be resolved amicably with a friendly warning, further problems can be avoided without any fuss. For most people, a friendly reminder of the rules and their purpose is enough to set things right.
Formal Warnings – Addressing Issues with Clear Expectations
When a friendly warning doesn’t elicit the desired outcome of change in behaviour and breaches continue to take place, a formal warning may be issued. A final warning gives the perpetrator one last chance to change their behaviour before further consequences are imposed.
Formal warnings should be issued in written form to ensure that there is proof of your efforts to bring the issue to their attention.
Punitive Measures – Ensuring Consequences for Breaches
Punitive measures, such as fines, should only be used as a last resort. These measures tend to draw contention and will almost certainly be disputed. Therefore, you must be able to demonstrate that you have put in every reasonable effort to resolve the issue before reaching this point.
In general, if you can demonstrate that the breached rule was a reasonable complaint, properly codified and clearly communicated, and that warnings were issued prior to implementing disciplinary actions, attempts to dispute the matter are likely to fail.
Conclusion
We all want to live harmoniously with our neighbours, and no one wants disciplinary actions to become necessary. However, by-laws exist to ensure fairness and uphold a peaceful environment for everyone.
With the right professional strata management services, you can address breaches effectively while fostering a cooperative and respectful community.
For effective strata management, you need the right team. At Strata Manager Finder WA, we help you find the best strata management services available to suit your strata scheme. Get a free quote today!