Bad neighbours and dodgy decisions: Tips for avoiding strata dramas

“New owners where the strata committee may be heavily influenced by one dominant individual can often come into conflict with somebody who act like the king or queen of the complex and considers new residents to be akin to an invading army to conquer and rule over,” Mr Mifsud said.

For those looking to buy into a strata scheme, Mr Mifsud recommended researching the body corporate and looking at the strata records for any questionable decision-making or those who stick strictly to enforcing by-laws.

“Many disputes arise when people buy into a strata community without understanding they are bound by strata legislation and by-laws,” he said.

“A strata committee is like a fourth tier of government following local council as they govern the communal property within the scheme land. Like politicians with varying agendas, strata committees can also encounter combative situations between themselves and residents.

“Complaints about neighbours, usually in regard to excessive noise, pets, parking issues and passive smoking are most common with the odd rogue renovator thrown in from time to time disregarding approval processes and by-laws.”

Through good management practices, Mr Mifsud said disputes can be dealt with adequately and kept in perspective, while letting go trivial arguments for the sake of keeping the peace.

With the number of people moving into strata communities increasing, Mr Mifsud added there is also an increasing demand for knowledgeable strata managers who are able to successfully keep the peace.

“There is a much greater need to better educate residents about investing and living in a strata community,” he said.