Specialist Community Scheme Expertise
Your matter is handled by a legal team that focuses specifically on sectional title schemes, HOAs, share block companies and voluntary associations.
Specialist Legal Advice for Community Schemes
Whether you're dealing with a sectional title dispute, homeowners' association governance, levy recovery, conduct rules, or a complex CSOS or court matter, our specialist team is here to help. VDM Attorneys advises bodies corporate, HOAs, share block companies, voluntary associations, managing agents, trustees, directors and owners with practical, commercially focused legal solutions tailored to the unique challenges of community schemes.
15+ Years of experience 6 experienced professionals 98% Approval rating on Google CSOS & Court Expert representation in both forums
Overview
Community Scheme Legal Experts
Community scheme disputes can quickly become difficult, expensive and highly technical. The right legal strategy depends on the type of scheme, the nature of the dispute, the available remedy and whether the matter belongs before CSOS or the courts.
Community scheme law is a specialist area that requires far more than general legal knowledge. Trustees, directors, managing agents, owners and residents face complex legislation, governance requirements and dispute resolution processes that demand experienced legal guidance.
At VDM Attorneys, our Community Schemes Department assists sectional title schemes, homeowners' associations (HOAs), share block companies and voluntary associations with everything from governance and compliance to dispute resolution, levy recovery and litigation.
Led by Johlene Wasserman, one of South Africa's leading community scheme attorneys, our team provides practical, commercially focused advice that protects communities while helping schemes operate efficiently.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Specialist Advice. Clear Strategy. Effective Resolution.
Community scheme law requires a detailed understanding of governance, legislation, enforcement and dispute resolution. Our team combines technical legal knowledge with practical industry experience to help schemes make better decisions and resolve disputes efficiently.
CSOS and Court Representation
We assess whether your matter should proceed through CSOS, the Magistrates’ Court or the High Court and guide you through the correct process.
Industry-Recognised Leadership
Our Community Schemes Department is headed by Johlene Wasserman, a LexisNexis contributor and PhD researcher in the professionalisation of scheme executives.
Practical Governance Support
We help trustees, directors, managing agents and scheme executives understand their duties, apply the rules correctly and avoid preventable disputes.
Strong Enforcement Strategies
From levy recovery and rental attachment applications to rule enforcement and urgent court proceedings, we pursue practical remedies that protect the scheme.
Tailored Legal Solutions
Every scheme and dispute is different. We develop a legal strategy based on your governing documents, the facts of the matter and the outcome you need.
FAQs
Your Community Scheme Questions Answered
Community scheme legislation can be complex, particularly when navigating governance, disputes, levy recovery and the distinction between CSOS and court proceedings. Here are answers to some of the questions we are most frequently asked.
What types of community schemes do you assist?
We assist sectional title schemes, homeowners’ associations, share block companies and voluntary associations.
Who can approach VDM Attorneys for help?
We assist bodies corporate, trustees, directors, managing agents, scheme executives, developers, owners, residents and other stakeholders.
Does every community scheme dispute have to go to CSOS?
No. CSOS only has jurisdiction over certain categories of community scheme disputes and specific forms of relief. Some matters must be dealt with through the courts.
When is court action more appropriate than CSOS?
Court action may be more appropriate where urgent relief is required, where the remedy falls outside CSOS jurisdiction, where stronger enforcement powers are needed or where the matter involves broader legal issues.
Can VDM Attorneys help with CSOS applications?
Yes. We assist with the preparation, response and management of CSOS applications, including legal submissions and representation where appropriate.
Can you assist with levy recovery?
Yes. We assist with arrear levy recovery, letters of demand, payment arrangements, court proceedings and rental attachment applications where applicable.
Can a scheme issue fines if its conduct rules are not approved?
A scheme must ensure that its conduct rules are validly adopted and approved where required before attempting to enforce them or impose penalties.
Can you help amend conduct or management rules?
Yes. We assist with drafting, reviewing, amending and submitting conduct and management rules for approval.
Do you advise trustees and directors on their duties?
Yes. We provide guidance on fiduciary duties, decision-making, meetings, resolutions, governance, conflicts of interest and statutory compliance.
Can you assist with disputes between owners and trustees?
Yes. We assist with disputes involving owners, trustees, directors, managing agents, residents and other scheme stakeholders.
Do you provide ongoing legal support to managing agents and schemes?
Yes. We can provide ongoing advice on governance, compliance, enforcement, disputes and day-to-day legal issues affecting the scheme.
Speak to a Specialist
Need Advice on a Community Scheme Matter?
Whether you're a trustee, director, managing agent, owner or resident, our specialist Community Schemes team is ready to help. From governance and compliance to CSOS applications, levy recovery and court litigation, we'll assess your matter and guide you towards the most effective legal solution. Get in touch today to speak with one of our experienced community scheme attorneys.