03/10/2026
PROPERTY GOVERNANCE UPDATE:
What You Need to Know About the CSOS 2025 Consolidated Practice Directive.
The Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) issued its Consolidated Practice Directive, introducing key updates to streamline governance, improve accountability, and clarify operational rules for both Sectional Title Schemes and Homeowners Associations (HOA) across South Africa.
Here are the primary takeaways every trustee, director, and property owner needs to know:
Key Takeaways & Highlights:
Mandatory CSOS Connect Registration & Up-to-Date Records.
Schemes must ensure their CSOS Connect profiles are fully updated.
Annual Financial Statements (AFS), updated trustee/director details, and scheme rules must be uploaded regularly.
Rule Enforcement & Section 10 Certificates.
Unapproved rules are unenforceable. Any conduct or management rules (or HOA constitutions/MOIs) not approved by CSOS with a valid Section 10 Certificate cannot be legally enforced.
Due process must always be followed prior to levying any fines.
Flexibility for Adjourned Special Resolutions.
If a special resolution meeting lacks a quorum, the directive clarifies pathways to pass resolutions at adjourned meetings, provided correct notice and circulation procedures were followed.
Digital & Hybrid Governance.
Formalized provisions for virtual meetings, electronic voting, and digital signatures for scheme resolutions.
Exhausting Internal Dispute Resolution First
CSOS strongly emphasizes that internal scheme mechanisms (trustee meetings, internal conciliation) must be attempted before lodging a formal dispute with the Ombud.
Practical Advice for Trustees & Directors:
Audit your CSOS Connect portal to verify your compliance status.
Check that your Conduct Rules hold a valid CSOS approval certificate.
Ensure your administrative processes for fines follow fair, documented procedures.
Staying compliant protects scheme funds, maintains property values, and ensures smooth governance for all residents!