Top 5 Things You Didn’t Know Your Strata Committee Might Be Doing Wrong

When you buy into an apartment complex, townhouse, or unit, you’re not just buying four walls and a roof—you’re buying into a community. That community is managed by your body corporate or strata committee, and while they’re meant to keep things running smoothly, sometimes mistakes slip through the cracks.

Here are five of the most common missteps strata committees make (and how a little legal guidance can save everyone a headache).

1. Forgetting That By-Laws Aren’t Just “Set and Forget”

By-laws aren’t written in stone. They need to be reviewed and updated as buildings evolve. Whether it’s parking rules, pet approvals, or noise restrictions, failing to refresh outdated by-laws can create loopholes and disputes.

Pro tip: If your by-laws were drafted before TikTok and e-scooters were a thing, they probably need a refresh.

2. Mishandling Caretaker and Manager Agreements

Caretaker and letting agreements can run for years—sometimes decades. If they’re poorly drafted or left unmonitored, they can tie the committee’s hands, leading to escalating costs or disputes that could have been avoided with regular reviews.

3. Ignoring Levy Recovery Until It’s Too Late

Levies are the lifeblood of a body corporate. Without them, there’s no budget for maintenance, insurance, or improvements. Too many committees delay chasing arrears, which can quickly spiral into big financial gaps. Acting early keeps the community solvent (and neighbourly relationships intact).

4. Overlooking Building Defects and Maintenance Obligations

Turning a blind eye to that leaking roof or crumbling render doesn’t just frustrate residents—it can put the committee in breach of its duties. Strata law requires certain maintenance and repairs, and ignoring them can open the door to liability.

5. Thinking Disputes Will “Sort Themselves Out”

Spoiler: they rarely do. Whether it’s noise complaints, renovation dramas, or who gets the bigger car park, disputes left to fester often end up costing more in time, money, and stress. The right legal guidance can resolve issues quickly and fairly—before they snowball.

Wrapping It Up

Being on a strata committee isn’t easy. The responsibilities are big, and the decisions you make affect the entire community. But you don’t have to do it alone.

At Tallay Law, we help body corporates and committees across the Gold Coast and Northern NSW navigate by-laws, disputes, caretaker agreements, levy recovery, and everything in between. Our goal? To make your community run smoother, fairer, and with far fewer sleepless nights.

Need support with your strata committee? Get in touch with Tallay Law today.