We have all experienced a contracted arrangement gone wrong - a painting contractor wose work starts bubbling just months after is is completed or a plumber who charges to repair a leaking pipe but does not fix the leak.

Without a crystal ball, there is no way to completely avoid these unfortunate situations. However, there are ways to mitigate the risk that follows from engaging contractors whom your community has no prior relationship with.

It's no surprise, given we're talking about dollars and cents, that issues about body corporate levies and debt recovery are common place. We've attempted to compile some of the more frequently asked questions below, with answers. As always, it is not legal advice and is provided as a guide only.