Living in units or townhouses provides an opportunity for a shared community and connection with your neighbours. However, it can also result in some discord between neighbours when certain issues are not seen from the same viewpoint. This is normal and should be expected, however it’s also important to remember that the way you respond to these disagreements will impact on the way your community functions and your relationship with your neighbours. By considering how you interact with your neighbours, you are also providing yourself the best opportunity to create a harmonious living environment. 

In order to promote this type of environment, if you do have an issue with your neighbour, try talking to them before anything else. Raise your concerns, but also remember to take a moment to hear theirs. Try to find common ground and a suitable compromise. 

If you cannot find common ground, or the matter is of a serious or delicate nature, there are a series of steps you can take to remedy the situation.  

Step 1.  

Speak to the Owners Corporation Chairperson. They may already be aware of the situation and taking steps to resolve the matter. If that is not the case, they can inform the other committee members and instruct Owners Corporation Management to speak to, or issue a letter on behalf of the Owners Corporation.  If the issue persists or escalates, it may be time for a formal complaint.  

Step 2.  

The OC Act (2006) requires members to issue a written complaint in the approved format. Please complete the Owners Corporation Complaint form for the official lodgment of a grievance. 

If you are alleging that there has been a breach of the Owners Corporation Rules (the Rules), the Owners Corporations Act 2006 (the Act) or the Owners Corporations Regulations 2007 (the Regulations) the following process will be followed: