About Our Law Firm
At Contracts Specialist, we offer the City of Wollongong and its surrounding suburbs, including Woonona – Russell Vale, Figtree, and Dapto – Brownsville, over 13 years of specialised expertise in strata law. Our dedication lies in understanding the distinct needs of strata owners, strata managers, and strata service providers in the region.
While we provide legal services tailored to the unique requirements of the City of Wollongong and its neighbouring areas, it’s important to note that we are not physically located in these suburbs. Our commitment is to offer personalised service, ensuring direct communication and leveraging modern technology to keep our clients informed at every stage. Our consistent dedication to excellence is reflected in our outstanding reputation and client feedback.
Strata Schemes
Strata schemes present a unique set of challenges and complexities. Unlike freestanding homes, strata complexes operate under specific laws and regulations. These schemes involve multiple owners, each with their distinct personalities, cohabiting in a shared environment. To ensure harmony and smooth operation within these shared spaces, strict by-laws and regulations are put in place.
However, given the nature of shared living, disputes and issues are bound to arise. This is where the expertise of strata lawyers becomes invaluable. They play a crucial role in both preventing and managing the legal challenges that emerge within strata schemes.
Several pivotal legislations govern strata schemes in NSW:
The Home Building Act 1989 (NSW): This act serves as the primary regulation for the residential building sector and specific specialist tasks in NSW.
The Strata Schemes (Freehold Development) Act: This legislation delineates the ownership system within a Strata Scheme. It provides individuals with exclusive ownership of a portion of a building, known as their ‘lot’, while also granting them certain rights over the building’s common property. The act elaborates on the subdivision of lots, registration of strata plans, and the leasing, transfer, or acquisition of common property.
The Strata Schemes Management Act 2015: This act outlines the rights and duties of the Owners Corporation, as well as the individual owners and residents within the Strata Scheme. It encompasses procedures for Owners Corporation meetings, the appointment and role of an executive committee, financial management, essential areas like maintenance and repairs, insurance mandates, and a dispute resolution mechanism.
Our Services
At Contracts Specialist, we provide comprehensive strata legal services, guiding clients through every facet of strata matters. From contract formulation to the enforcement of legal rights, our expertise encompasses maintenance, remedial work, and addressing defective works.
Recovery of Levies
A common challenge faced by Owners Corporations is the recovery of levies from strata title lot owners. As stipulated by the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (NSW), the Owners Corporation holds the right to reclaim any unpaid contributions. This recovery is in line with the Act’s terms and includes interest as well as the reasonable enforcement costs.
Defect Claims
In the initial years following the registration of a strata plan and the subsequent sale of lots by the developer, the Owners Corporation often encountered building defects. These can range from water ingress and cracks to issues like peeling, settlement, and more. The Home Building Act 1989 (NSW) empowers the Owners Corporation to initiate proceedings, leveraging statutory warranties to recoup the costs associated with rectifying such defects.
Legal Advice and Practical Solutions
Our team of strata lawyers boasts extensive knowledge and experience in all dimensions of strata law. When you choose Contracts Specialist, you can expect:
- Tailored legal advice addressing your specific strata concerns.
- Enforcement of your rights, whether through adjudication, courts, or tribunals.
- Skilled negotiation for settlements.
- Meticulous preparation of all necessary legal documentation.
Benefits of Our Services
Navigating the intricate realm of strata requires a deep understanding of its unique dynamics, laws, and cases. At Contracts Specialist, we’re well-versed in these nuances, ensuring that our clients are equipped to make informed decisions, implement effective policies, and swiftly resolve disputes.
Time and Money Savings
Engaging with seasoned experts for a review and consultation on your strata concerns can lead to significant time and financial savings. By understanding the best legal avenues available, you can make decisions that are both timely and cost-effective.
Ensuring Satisfaction
Our commitment to client satisfaction is unparalleled. When you choose our services, you collaborate directly with our principal lawyer, a professional with over 13 years of expertise in strata and its associated dispute resolutions.
Successful Outcomes
Our legacy is built on a consistent track record of successful outcomes and a clientele that stands testament to our dedication and proficiency in the field of strata law.
Meet Our Strata Dispute Lawyer
At the heart of Contracts Specialist is our Principal Lawyer, John Dela Cruz, a seasoned authority in construction law with an impressive track record spanning over 13 years, particularly in strata disputes.
John’s journey in construction law is both diverse and distinguished. He has donned the role of legal counsel for a renowned Dow 30 construction enterprise and has showcased his expertise as a Government Solicitor. His leadership skills are evident from his tenure as the Divisional President of the Master Builders Association (NSW). Furthermore, his entrepreneurial spirit shines through with the foundation of Small Builders Building Software.
John’s prowess in construction law is all-encompassing. From drafting to reviewing a myriad of construction contracts, including strata by-laws, he’s done it all. His profound understanding of construction law extends across every Australian state, making him adept at elucidating common legal challenges associated with strata management and disputes.
Get Legal Advice
Navigating the intricacies of strata disputes demands the guidance of seasoned experts, particularly when it comes to construction contracts and levy payments. As specialist strata lawyers, we are dedicated to providing insightful advice and robust representation. Whether you’re an owner of a strata title lot, a member of a strata corporation, an executive committee participant, or a strata manager, our expertise is tailored to address your unique challenges and concerns. Entrust your strata matters to us and experience the difference of informed, expert legal counsel.
Secure Your Strata Interests in Wollongong: Embark on the Journey
Addressing strata disputes in the City of Wollongong and its surrounding suburbs, including Woonona – Russell Vale, Figtree, Dapto – Brownsville, demands precision and expertise. Our law firm stands ready to empower strata owners, managers, service providers, executive committees, and title lot owners with unparalleled legal counsel and representation. Begin your journey with a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Reach out now and explore how we can be your guiding light in strata matters.
