Paddocks Press – April 08

Paddocks Press is an ad hoc free digital newsletter published to educate and update the sectional title community. The current issue (Volume 3, Issue 4) has a number of articles of interest, including:

When is an enclosure or improvement an extension of a section? - Greer Moore-Barnes looks at the problems and complications that arise when schemes allow unauthorised enclosures/improvements that ultimately lead to disputes and unhappiness. Examples include "Add-ons" such as a full scale laundry or additional bedrooms. None of which comply with the provisions of the Sectional Titles Act or the Management Rules.

The Taxman giveth - Clint Riddin draws attention to the gift from Trevor Manuel which some might have missed. This is that the first R50 000 of interest income earned on investments is now exempt from tax.

The first UCT Advanced Scheme Management Course - A report back on the first course held recently, which was completed by 50 students from around the country.

Back to basics with Judith van der Walt The importance and necessity of managing agents registering with the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB) and the getting a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate ("FCC").

Q & A with the Professor - Professor Graham Paddock replies to a number of questions including:

• Trustees charging an "administration fee" for letting units
  
• Restrictions on short and holiday letting
  
• Equal levies for a security guard - not in accordance with the participation quota
  
• Noisy neighbours
  
• Basis of sale of exclusive use rights to owners
  
• Sale of a unit owned by the body corporate