Sectional Title Vs. Urban Decay

In my opinion sectional title blocks can and do contribute to urban decay. I say this because, there are many sectional title blocks on the Blaauwberg road, that have fallen into the trap of letting things go to the point of decay. A drive down Parklands main road is full of examples of varying stages of urban decay.  I would suggest that this is mainly due to people buying into sectional title without realising that the sectional title act, is designed in such a way as to protect owners from the ills of urban decay.


So what can be done about it. Well to start with, you need trustees who are not scared of making unpopular decisions, as long as these decisions serve the greater good of the sectional title community.  I say this because I have heard of trustees preying on owners' ignorance of the act, in order to serve their own needs.


There have been many occasions where the trustees of Rietvlei, have had to deal with situations that contravene the act, and let me tell you, it's no fun. But standing by and allowing things to decay is not an option.


As we stand at this moment, we do have people who care enough about Rietvlei Park to stand up and be counted, however, they can't do this forever.  Our stalwart in the fight against decay: Glenda, has been looking after our interests for some 17 years now, together the two of us have learned a great deal about the sectional title act.  But here's the thing; we have done nothing that any other owner cannot do.  It's time for owners; especially resident owners, to familiarise themselves with the legal documents pertaining to our complex and to make themselves available for nomination as trustees.  If Rietvlei Park is to enjoy the future it deserves, its up to all the owners and residents to participate in it's upkeep.  Believe me when I tell you, the line is very thin between "a great place to live" and an "embarrassment to to the good people living here".