Paying strata levies or fees is not optional if you own a lot in a strata complex – that’s a legal requirement
Many lot owners fall into arrears because of financial hardship, forgetfulness, or refusal to pay in the case of a dispute. If you’re experiencing difficulties with strata debts, read on to see how to collect unpaid strata levies.
Here are three areas that will help you learn how this problem can be addressed in your strata property:
When someone in your strata managed building doesn’t pay, it puts pressure on everyone related to strata living. For example:
It puts financial strain on the other owners who may have to make up for the shortfall
It could create a deficit in the budget outlined by your owners corporation to manage the property and maintain it up to standards – they may be unable to pay plumbers, electricians, and other professionals involved in managing strata property matters
If owners get away with not paying, it sends a message to others that they don’t need to pay either, leading to a snowball effect
The cost of collecting unpaid levies can mount up, leaving the owners’ corporation in an even worse situation financially
Owners who don’t pay or have arrears at the time of voting in general meetings are deemed ‘unfinancial’ and therefore excluded from voting in property matters
When people don’t pay, it causes friction and negative sentiments with their neighbours and other property owners. This can be overcome by getting your strata managers to chase the unpaid levies.