Disputes, Negotiation, Mediation – The Facts
As part of this subject of Disputes, Negotiation, Mediation we have noted in this newsletter the long winded but factual part of the Act so that all residents are aware of their rights and the processes to be followed.
We feel it is necessary for all manufactured home owners to know these facts, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us. We can help all residents when they find themselves involved in this area and not just advise, but also assist you to work through the process and support you at all stages.
Steps to resolving residential park disputes
If you have a problem with a residential park operator or another person in the park, you can take steps to resolve the problem. There is more than one way to resolve a dispute and different options may suit your situation better.
Miscommunications and misunderstandings are often the cause of disputes, so it’s important to try to talk to the person involved first.
You can apply for a tribunal hearing if you feel you’re at risk of, or experienced inappropriate financial advice, abuse / intimidation, threats, bullying, or any treatment where you feel unsafe or not secure.
This guide will take you through the steps involved in resolving the dispute yourself or with outside help, including getting legal advice.
Respect for all residents
At all times, residents must respect the:
- peace, comfort, and privacy of fellow residents
- right of the park operator, their employees, and their representatives to work in an environment free from harassment and intimidation.
- right of staff and contractors in the park to work in a safe workplace.
Additionally, residential park owners must:
- respect the peace, comfort and privacy of a home owner and other residents.
- respect the right for each home owner or other resident to live in an environment free from harassment and intimidation.
- respect the rights of a home owner or other resident to have autonomy over their personal, financial, and domestic matters, as well as their possessions.
- respond to correspondence from the home owner or other resident, or a representative of a home owner or other resident within 21 days.
Try to resolve it together first
It’s important to discuss any concerns with the person involved first. We suggest you follow these steps when trying to resolve the dispute yourself.
- Write to the manufactured home owner about your dispute and suggest a date for a meeting. You should give at least 14 days’ notice before the meeting.
- Allow 7 days for a response from the manufactured home owner.
- Confirm or negotiate a meeting time that both parties can attend.
- Voice your concerns clearly and try to resolve the issue in the meeting.
