The secretary of my body corporate and the strata management agent refuse/are unable to produce the invoice of the expense item in the financial record that I have requested. Where can I get help to resolve these issues? – Mary, NSW

Q: The secretary of my strata property and the strata management agent refuse/are unable to produce the invoice of the expense item in the financial records that I have requested. Where can I get help to resolve this issue? There is a lack of transparency as to how the money has been spent.

 

A: If you are an owner in the strata scheme, you may make a written request to the owners corporation to inspect the records, however, there may be a small fee involved (currently $31 for the first hour).

The inspection time and place has to be agreed upon by both parties and documents can be inspected either in person, through electronic access or any other agreed methods. You are also allowed to make copies of the documents.

If you are unable to gain access still, you may wish to take the case up with the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for formal dispute resolution.