Our residents don’t read or comply with our by-laws – help needed! – Andrew, QLD

Q:  I’m on my body corporate committee, and I find that a lot of owners or tenants do not read or comply with by-laws. I also find they are unaware they even exist. Do you have a pocket guide for committees that we can hand out, to educate them about by-laws and the committee’s role?

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A: By-laws are specific to each property. A copy of the by-laws should be given to all new property owners and tenants when they sign a lease. Compliance with by-laws is generally a condition of ownership or the lease agreement. In the case of a tenant, it is important that any alleged breach is reported to the landlord or their agent.

You might find it useful to read our interview with by-laws specialist from Kemps Petersons Legal. The article covers why so many people are unaware of by-laws, what to be cautious of, and how to minimise disputes.