Law change no cause for worry
22/04/2007 New Straits Times

Datuk Ahmad Fuad Ismail says the entire system is being fine-tuned

KUALA LUMPUR: The fast-track system aimed at boosting the property sector will be fully implemented within the next two months, said secretary-general to the Housing and Local Government Ministry, Datuk Ahmad Fuad Ismail.

At present, those involved are undergoing training to ensure the effective implementation of the system, which was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi last Friday.

The aim of these improvements, he said, was to safeguard the interests of developers and housebuyers, adding that the changes were made following a series of meetings and discussions with all players in the housing industry.

"The entire system is being fine-tuned," he said on the newly-enacted Building and Common Property (Maintenance and Management) Act 2007, or Act 663.

"Though there may be some new penalties imposed, there is nothing to worry about."

Under Act 663, owners of stratified properties risk having a warrant of attachment of moveable property served on them if they fail to settle their maintenance charges.

"Under the new Act, owners must pay their charges within 14 days of the first notice and if they fail to do so even after the second notice, they can be taken to court."

Both the owner and tenant must also make sure they are registered with their respective management bodies.

Ahmad Fuad said there was no cause for concern as there would be numerous reminders and only the gentle approach would be used.

A warrant of attachment will only be served as a last resort.

"These amendments are made to ensure that the entire housing industry functions effectively without any hiccups on the part of the developer or dwellers."

For those having problems with their strata titles, there are provisions providing for the setting up of a Strata Title Board, which would function like a tribunal to resolve woes.

Anyone with such problems could register their interest with the board.

Under the new amendments, developers must apply for strata titles not more than six months after issuance of the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) and vacant possession are given.

"The issuance of strata titles has been shortened from a few years to six months."