Whitfields condone un-contractual fines

<p>In recent experience with Whitfields, they supposedly act as the single point of contact between owners and trustees of the Amarja Townhouse Complex in Bromhof Randburg.</p> <p>According to the complex's Conduct Rules, it states that fees will be increased for each subsequent breach of the same rule, with a maximum fine not greater than one month's levy. In this case, Whitfields condoned a fine of R1000, when one month's levy is R916, putting them in breach and condoning the trustees to allocate an *******/un-contractual fine amount?</p> <p>When the question were raised, Whitfields did not oppose the trustees when an unspecified fine were allocated and responded that trustees can use their discretion and increase a fine payable (even though not stipulated in the Conduct Rules), which mean trustees have an "open cheque book/no limit" and can ****** residents when it suits them?</p> <p>A maximum fine are usually allocated when there is numerous breaches of the same rule. In my case, I’ve owned a property in this complex since 2006 and never broke any rule or received any fines during this time. I then apparently broke a rule in June 2016 (which is not specified in the Schedule of Fines), for allowing a truck to enter the complex (this was a once off or something that might maybe occur once in 10 years)? I explained to them that I was not aware what size vehicle the company would elect use on the day (like one would usually know when you’re moving house that a truck will be used) and for this reason would not have thought to request permission upfront. This was an honest mistake. </p> <p>When I enquired with Whitfields why this would warrant a maximum fine they couldn't provide a proper answer apart from indicating it's a "serious" rule broken (even though no damage were caused to anything, nor were any evidence supp**** of the weight of the vehicle and whether this was actually over the limit)?</p> <p>Ultimately this particular matter was handled in poor taste, regardless of whether Whitfields were acting on behalf of the Trustees. Whitfields should be able to use unbiased discretion for what is right or wrong (what is fair or not) when wanting to act as the single point of contact or so called mediator/facilitator of this process.</p> <p>I am writing this review due to the frustration experienced during this scenario and hope whoever reads this, will be mindful when wanting to do future business with Whitfields.</p>