Living in a body corporate can be a convenient and cost-effective way to own property, but it also comes with certain responsibilities. One of the most important of these is pest control. In this article, we will outline the key responsibilities of lot owners and the body corporate when it comes to pest control, as well as some best practices for minimising costs and ensuring effective prevention and treatment measures.
Under the Queensland body corporate legislation, the body corporate is responsible for pest inspection, prevention, and treatment work on common property. This includes any shared spaces or amenities, such as hallways, gardens, and swimming pools.
The body corporate is also responsible for ensuring that any necessary pest control measures are carried out by a licensed and qualified pest technician.
While the body corporate is responsible for common property pest control, lot owners are generally responsible for any pest inspection and treatment work that is required within their lot. This includes any interior spaces, as well as any balconies, patios, or other outdoor areas that are part of the lot.
Any necessary pest control measures must be carried out by a licensed and qualified pest technician.
To effectively address the situation of sharing a wall with a neighbour who neglects pest inspections, open communication is key. Encourage them to take the necessary steps and inform them about the potential risks associated with unchecked pests that can easily spread between properties.
In case of any reluctance, involving the body corporate, if applicable, can help mediate the situation and ensure that all necessary inspections and treatments are carried out promptly, benefiting both parties involved.
When choosing a pest inspector, it is important to look for someone who is licensed and qualified, and who has experience working with body corporates.
You can also ask for recommendations from other lot owners or the body corporate itself. You may receive a discounted rate for multiple inspections at once. Collaborating with other residents to schedule inspections together not only promotes cost savings but also maximises efficiency in addressing pest control concerns.
The body corporate has a responsibility to ensure that pest control measures are carried out effectively and properly, but it is not necessarily their role to police individual lot owners or inspectors. However, the body corporate can provide guidance and support to lot owners in choosing a reputable inspector and can also ensure that any necessary follow-up work is carried out in a timely and effective manner.
On 24 April 2024, the Queensland Government announced more changes to the legislation regarding pets. Taking effect from 1 May 2024 these will impact nearly all body corporate communities in Queensland. This article touches on those changes, how they compare to the previous legislation, and what it means for body corporate committees.
Like any communal living arrangement, disagreements can and do arise amongst residents. This article looks at the process of self-resolution and resolving disputes with other residents in a body corporate scheme.
