he is planning to go all the way to NCAT and Fair Trading, but he’s worried about the cost to hire a lawyer for NCAT which will have to take himself as an owner.
Action at NCAT must be preceded by a mediation at Fair Trading. At the mediation, it will become apparent to them that they do not have a legal leg to stand on. If they still defend the case at the Tribunal, you can ask that they have to pay your legal costs on the grounds that they knew they had no defence. Make this clear at the mediation that this is your intention. Talk to an experienced strata lawyer NOW about your options.