When Parking Becomes a Problem: How CSOS Helps Neighbours Get Along
It all started on a hot summer afternoon in Durban.
Two neighbours — Ms Govender and Mr Nkosi — lived peacefully in the same complex for many years. But when Mr Nkosi’s son came home from university with a new car, he started parking in the visitor’s bay.
At first, no one said much. Then other residents began to complain that the family was taking over parking meant for everyone. Soon, tempers flared. At the next meeting, voices were raised, and feelings were hurt.
Before long, the problem was sent to the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) for help.
What CSOS Decided
In the case of Ms Govender vs. Mr Nkosi (fictional example), the Ombud found that:
“Visitor bays are part of the common property. They belong to everyone and cannot be used as private parking.”
The Ombud ruled that Mr Nkosi’s family had to stop using the visitor bay permanently.
But the decision also reminded the trustees that they should have stopped the problem earlier. When rules aren’t enforced fairly, small problems grow into big disputes.
What CSOS Has Learned About Parking Disputes
CSOS often deals with cases where people park in the wrong spot or block access to others.
Some of these cases are rejected — for example, if they are only about breaking parking rules that the scheme can handle on its own.
But many cases are accepted because they involve behavioural or nuisance issues — like when parking causes tension, unfair treatment, or safety problems.
This is when CSOS steps in to help restore peace and fairness.
💡 Lessons for Everyone
| Role | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Trustees | Apply the same rules to everyone. Don’t look the other way. |
| Residents | Don’t assume “I’ve always parked here” means you have the right to. |
| Managing Agents | Keep records of who can park where and share clear updates with residents. |
The Human Side
In the end, this dispute wasn’t just about a car or a parking space.
It was about being heard and feeling respected.
Ms Govender later said,
“I wasn’t angry about the car. I was angry that nobody listened when I complained.”
Mr Nkosi admitted,
“I just wanted my son to have a safe place to park. I didn’t think it would cause so much trouble.”
Parking problems often show deeper issues in a community — how people talk, listen, and treat each other.
🪞 Final Thoughts
Living together means sharing space and understanding boundaries.
Parking may seem small, but it can teach us big lessons about respect, fairness, and communication.
So next time a parking issue arises, remember:
🏡 Shared spaces need shared understanding — and CSOS is here to help make that happen.