In a strategic move to enhance regulatory oversight and compliance with the Registration (Strata Titles) Act, the Commission of Strata Corporations has extended the lead time for random inspections of strata corporations across Jamaica. The inspections are central to the Commission’s ongoing efforts to identify areas for improvement and support the implementation of corrective measures among corporations.

               With the change, strata corporations will receive written notices of scheduled random inspections, at least three months in advance. This timeline is designed to provide executive committees ample time to collate and prepare the necessary documents for presentation on the inspection date.

In addition to general operational practices and conformity to the Act, the inspection process will assess several critical areas, including:

· Validity of Annual General Meetings: Inspectors will review records to ensure AGMs are conducted and documented in compliance with statutory requirements.

· Proof of Insurance: Strata corporations must provide evidence of valid insurance coverage as mandated by law, or evidence of a unanimous resolution not to insure

· Executive Committee Documentation: A list of current executive committee members must be submitted to verify leadership and governance structures.

The inspection notification will include a handbill outlining the purpose of the inspection and benefits of compliance. This educational component is designed to enhance understanding among proprietors about the importance of regulatory compliance and the role of executive committee members. A post-inspection survey form will be sent to the corporations for completion. This will allow the Commission to review and evaluate its own effectiveness in order to continuously improve its own operations.  

               The Commission has also clarified that certain aspects of the inspection will focus on physical observations for which no documents are required. These include assessments of common areas to identify any breaches, and identify any variations between the strata plan or bylaws.

               In a statement, CEO for the Commission, Mr Phillip Chambers, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “These inspections are not merely about enforcement; they are designed to guide strata corporations in maintaining best practices, ultimately protecting property values and enhancing community living standards.”

               The Commission of Strata Corporations encourages executive committee members to give due attention to the notice letters, and to prepare accordingly.                The Commission of Strata Corporations is the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the operations of strata properties in Jamaica. Its mandate includes ensuring compliance with the Registration (Strata Titles) Act.  This includes: keeping a register of such corporations; facilitating the resolution of disputes, in particular, those between a corporation and a proprietor arising from any matter to which this Act relates; and enforcing bylaws.