Buying guide

What is a body corporate and how does it work?

If you buy an apartment or townhouse you may need to deal with a body corporate. Here’s everything you need to know

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 8 April 2024 | 6 min read
AI

AI summary

Buying a unit title property, like an apartment, means you automatically join a body corporate. This legal entity manages shared areas, finances, insurance, and sets rules for all residents.

Owners contribute through annual body corporate fees to cover maintenance and operational costs.

Before purchasing, it's crucial to perform due diligence. Review the body corporate's meeting minutes, financial statements, and rules to understand the building's health and governance, ideally with help from a property lawyer.

How does a body corporate work?

How much are body corporate fees?

Your body corporate may limit the way you can use your property.

Body corporate rules explained

Buyer’s due diligence: how to find body corporate details

Always check the body corporate rules before buying an apartment.

Getting help reviewing your body corporate

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer