#13479
Jimmy-T
Keymaster

    If things are bad to demand change but not bad enough to convince the CTTT, I think you have to give due consideration to the option of mounting a 'coup' by acquiring enough votes to clear the incumbents out. 

    I know from personal experience that that's not as easy as it sounds but it's far from impossible.

    First get a hold of the list of addresses for all owners.

    Then write to them about how you think the value of their property is being eroded by bad management. For instance, get comments from local real estate agents of how much more apartments would be worth if x, y and z were done.

    Then tell the other owners how you think their money is being wasted. Point to obvious 'holes' in the accounts and contracts that cost more than they should.  Again, back it up with quotes.

    Then tell them what you and your cohorts plan to do about it.

    Once you have the numbers, either call an EGM or wait for the next AGM, reduce or increase the size of the Executive Committee to the numbers that will work best for you, propose your “slate” as a group and if you've got your numbers right, take over.

    Then work your backsides off to show that people were right to have faith in you.

    But what you don't do is:

    • Attack the incumbents personally – your legal 'privilege' of fair comment is wiped out if the other side can prove malice.
    • Appeal to other owners' sense of fair play – that's a lot less compelling than the financial arguments
    • Demand change on principle.  It won't wash. Investor owners, especially are only interested in making money and not losing it.  They aren't interested in politics.

    So even if the real problem is that you are dealing with self-interested bullies,  the argument always has to be financial.  To people who don't live in the building, everything else is just hot air.

    Oh, and one last thing, be careful what you wish for.

    The opinions offered in these Forum posts and replies are not intended to be taken as legal advice. Readers with serious issues should consult experienced strata lawyers.