Purchasing a strata property is about more than simply finding the right apartment or townhouse. You’re also buying into an owners corporation, a strata management structure and a long-term financial commitment. That’s why recent legal action involving one of New South Wales’ largest strata management companies has attracted significant attention across the property industry. On 9 July 2026, NSW Fair Trading announced it had commenced criminal proceedings in the Supreme Court of NSW against Network Strata Services Pty Ltd (Netstrata) and its Director and Licensee in Charge, Stephen John Brell, for alleged breaches of the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 (NSW). These allegations remain before the Court and have not yet been determined.
The prosecution follows a lengthy regulatory investigation and concerns allegations relating to statutory duties, conflicts of interest, disclosure obligations and dealings with owners corporations. Following the announcement, Mr Brell stepped aside from his day-to-day management role while the proceedings continue, and the matter has attracted widespread attention across the strata sector. Regardless of the outcome, the case highlights one important point: good strata governance is just as important as the physical condition of the property itself.
The message for buyers and sellers is clear. Due diligence should extend well beyond the contract of sale. A strata inspection report, financial statements, meeting minutes, capital works fund balances and records of major building repairs can reveal valuable information about how a building is being managed. A well-managed strata scheme can reduce long-term risk, while poor governance may lead to unexpected special levies, maintenance disputes and additional costs after settlement.
What Buyers Should Review Before Purchasing a Strata Property
| Document or Record | Why It Matters |
| Strata inspection report | Identifies defects, disputes and maintenance history. |
| Meeting minutes | Highlights recurring issues and upcoming projects. |
| Capital works fund | Indicates whether the building is financially prepared for future repairs. |
| Financial statements | Demonstrates the financial health of the owners corporation. |
| Special levies | Reveals whether additional owner contributions have been required. |
| Building maintenance records | Confirms how major repairs have been managed. |
The recent proceedings also reinforce the importance of transparency in strata management. Buyers want confidence that building finances are being managed responsibly, while sellers benefit from being able to demonstrate that their property forms part of a well-managed owners corporation. Strong governance can increase buyer confidence, reduce settlement uncertainty and help support long-term property values.
Why Professional Conveyancing Matters When Buying Strata Property
| Conveyancer’s Role | Benefit to You |
| Review contract documents | Identifies legal risks before exchange. |
| Review strata records | Helps identify potential financial or compliance issues. |
| Explain owners corporation obligations | Ensures buyers understand their ongoing responsibilities. |
| Coordinate settlement | Helps keep the transaction progressing smoothly. |
| Liaise with agents and lenders | Reduces delays and improves communication. |
| Protect your legal interests | Provides independent advice throughout the transaction. |
Although most strata schemes are professionally managed to a high standard, this case demonstrates why buyers should never assume every building is the same. Taking the time to understand how a strata scheme is managed before exchanging contracts can make a significant difference to your ownership experience.
Flash Conveyancing Advice
Before purchasing a strata property, don’t just inspect the apartment itself. Ask your conveyancer to engage a strata inspector to review the strata records, the financial position of the owners corporation and any outstanding building or compliance issues. A little extra investigation before exchange can provide valuable peace of mind after settlement.
At Flash Conveyancing, Julian & Renee know that buying into a strata scheme means trusting the people who manage it as much as the property itself. That’s why they look beyond the contract, carefully reviewing strata records, owners corporation documentation and building history to help uncover potential risks before you commit. Their proactive approach gives buyers greater confidence, helps sellers present their property with transparency, and supports smoother, better-informed transactions from exchange through to settlement.
With extensive experience throughout the Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, The Hills, Hornsby and Parramatta council areas, Julian & Renee proudly assist clients buying, selling and transferring property across **Acacia Gardens, Angus, Arndell Park, Blacktown, Colebee, Glendenning, Glenwood, Grantham Farm, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Marsden Park, Melonba, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Riverstone, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, Tallawong, The Ponds, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Kenthurst, North Rocks, Northmead, Rouse Hill, Vineyard, Windsor, Annangrove, Box Hill, Cattai, Dural, Gables, Galston, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Maraylya, Middle Dural, Nelson, North Kellyville, Norwest, Winston Hills, Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. Whether you’re buying your first apartment, investing in a strata complex or selling an established unit, Flash Conveyancing provides practical advice, personalised service and thorough legal guidance to help ensure your investment is backed by informed decisions, sound due diligence and a confident settlement.
