Sexwale tables new legislation for townhouse complexes

23 Feb 2011

Human Settlements Minister Tokyo Sexwale has piloted two new pieces of
legislation which could fundamentally change the lives of people living
in high-rise flats, inner city buildings, townhouse complexes and other
gated communities.

The two bills – the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Bill and the
Community Schemes Ombud Service Bill – were passed by the National
Assembly yesterday (22 February 2011).

"These bills will contribute to good governance and improved
administration of sectional titles and community schemes," Sexwale said.
"They will also minimize the negative actions of some corporate bodies
which may want to ride roughshod over the interests of individual members."

Sexwale said more and more South Africans are beginning to look for
shelter in these areas – particularly young people, many of whom have
just left tertiary institutions or are starting their first job.

The Sectional Titles Schemes Management Bill provides for the
establishment of bodies corporate to manage and regulate common property
in sectional titles schemes, and the establishment of an advisory
council to advise the Minister.

The Community Schemes Ombud Service Bill establishes an ombud service to
resolve disputes emanating from within community schemes.

"An increasing number of community schemes are being developed, within
which there is governance by the community involved, shared financial
responsibility and common land and facilities.

"Quite often, the cordial relations among members of these bodies
corporate may deteriorate, giving rise to problems and disputes among
the participants because they involve control and administration of
finances, facilities and behaviour which require effective resolution.

"Currently, there is no effective and affordable dispute resolution
mechanism available to parties involved in community schemes. The
Community Schemes Ombud Service is aimed at addressing this weakness,"
Sexwale said.

Enquires:
Chris Vick
(Special Advisor to Minister Tokyo Sexwale)
Cell: 083 556 7644

Mandulo Maphumulo
Cell: 079 699 5145

Issued by: Department of Human Settlements
23 Feb 2011