How to effectively resolve disputes in South African sectional title properties

DEMAND for sectional title properties remains a dominant feature of South Africa's residential property market.

- GRANT SMEE

According to ooba Home Loans' oobarometer Q4 2025, 66% of individual buy-to-let investors applying for home loans in 2025 chose sectional title properties, with demand steadily increasing across investor and owner-occupier segments over the past five years.

While sectional title schemes offer buyers affordability and security, disputes can arise in shared living environments if expectations are not well managed.

Sectional title ownership works best when everyone understands their role and responsibilities," says Smee. "Problems typically arise when communication breaks down or when owners aren't fully aware of the rules that govern their scheme.

Understanding owners’ rights

While owners have responsibilities to maintain their individual sections, they also have clearly defined rights under the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act. These include:

The right to well-maintained communal areas, funded through levies.

The right to challenge unlawful or incorrect charges and claim reimbursement where appropriate.

The right to access body corporate records, including budgets, financial statements, and meeting minutes.

Owners are often aware of what they have to pay, but not always aware of what they are entitled to. Knowing your rights makes it much easier to resolve disputes calmly and quickly.

Common disputes in sectional title schemes