Renting and Body Corporate Fees: A Clear Guide for Tenants and Landlords

Renting and Body Corporate Fees: A Clear Guide for Tenants and Landlords

Living or occupying a strata-titled property, such as an apartment, townhouse, or commercial space, typically involves paying body corporate levies. If you’re renting such a property or space in Queensland, knowing who’s responsible for these levies is important.

So, who pays the levies?

The Landlord, as the owner of the lot, is liable for payment of body corporate levies.  The Landlord is  legally obligated to ensure that levies are paid on or before the due date to meet expenses for maintain and repairing the property.  These levies cover expenses such as building insurance, common area maintenance, common infrastructure services and contracted services.

In the case of commercial spaces, a Landlord may impose outgoings on their tenant to recoup the costs associated with the property’s operation, through the tenancy agreement. These outgoings could typically include electricity, rates, insurance, and body corporate levies.

While tenants typically are not directly responsible for paying body corporate levies, they can indirectly contribute to these costs in several ways. Landlords might raise rent to offset rising body corporate levies, dependent on the circumstances.

Understanding body corporate levies is crucial for a successful rental relationship. Both tenants and landlords should be knowledgeable about their specific responsibilities regarding these costs. Tenants should be aware of how body corporate levies can indirectly influence their rent and any additional charges they may face. Landlords, in turn, must ensure timely payment of fees and compliance with body corporate guidelines to preserve property value.

Through open communication and collaborative efforts, tenants and landlords can effectively address any questions or concerns related to body corporate levies and foster a harmonious living environment.

For further information relating to Tenant vs Owner obligations, it is always best to approach your Managing Agent in the first instance. Our office can also be contacted for general advice.