We recently moved and the address change was not updated at the body corporate, unfortunately, this all took place at the height of COVID and we did not realise this bill/invoice (which is small and a secondary body corp for a parking spot at the property we own) was no longer being received. The outstanding amount after 12 months was $200. The body corporate is now trying to charge us $300 in recovery fees which seems very out of proportion to the amount originally outstanding (150% of the outstanding amount). We have tried to discuss the amount of fees with them but they don’t seem to think fees of 150% of the original amount are unreasonable. Wondering if we have any recourse here as it just seems ludicrous. – Elizabeth, VIC

Q: We recently moved and the address change was not updated at the body corporate, unfortunately, this all took place at the height of COVID and we did not realise this bill/invoice (which is small and a secondary body corp for a parking spot at the property we own) was no longer being received. It was also while we were transitioning property managers.

Anyway, the outstanding amount after 12 months was $200. We were contacted to update the address by a collections agency. As soon as we were alerted we paid the outstanding levies. The body corporate is now trying to charge us $300 in recovery fees which seems very out of proportion to the amount originally outstanding (150% of the outstanding amount) We have tried to discuss the amount of fees with them but they don’t seem to think fees of 150% of the original amount are unreasonable.

Wondering if we have any recourse here as it just seems ludicrous.

 

A: If talks with your body corporate have been unsuccessful, you may wish to bring the case to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

Another avenue for help is through your owners corporation manager if you have one available.