Should our Strata committee be seeking our own legal representation or is this likely just bluff.
Second question first – this is probably just typical non-strata-savvy lawyer bluff and bluster. The simple fact is that the owner has to declare anything to a purchaser that might affect their use of the property. If they lie on the declaration, that is a criminal (I think) offence.
Just tell the lawyer that, especially in view of their letter, the committee will now be sure to diligently observe all requirements of strata and property law and you trust their client will do the same. They should bear in mind that the owners corporation has a legal duty to protect common property for ALL owners.
As for hiring a strata lawyer, your call but a strongly worded letter might be all you need to get them back in their box.
By the way, I think lawyers who bend the facts to bully people into doing what their clients want should be struck off as a matter of course.