You have chosen a village. Now comes the most important step: understanding exactly what you are agreeing to before you sign.
Why independent advice is required
The law requires you to receive independent legal advice before signing an ORA. This is not a formality. Parliament included this requirement because ORAs are complex, the commitments are significant, and residents need protection from signing agreements they do not fully understand.
What we do during an ORA review
When you bring us your agreement, we:
Read and analyse the entire document
ORAs are lengthy and technical. We identify the provisions that will affect you most.
Explain each key term in plain English
What is the DMF? How is it calculated? When do weekly fees increase? What triggers exit? We ensure you understand each provision that matters.
Model the financial implications
We work through the numbers. If you pay X and stay for Y years, what might you receive back? What if values rise? What if they fall?
Answer your questions
No question is too basic. If you do not understand something, we explain it again. This is your decision, and you need to feel confident in your understanding.
Certify that we have advised you
We are required to certify that we have explained the agreement and that you understand its effect. We take this responsibility seriously.
Your family is welcome at our meeting
Adult children often attend ORA review meetings. Understanding together helps everyone. Family members sometimes ask questions the resident had not thought of, and hearing the explanation together prevents later confusion.
The 15 working day cooling-off period
After you sign, you have 15 working days to withdraw without penalty. This is a statutory protection. If you have second thoughts, or if something changes, this period gives you an opportunity to reconsider.
What Carlile Dowling does at this stage
Before you sign, we:
- • Review the entire ORA and all associated documents
- • Explain all key terms in plain English
- • Model the financial implications of your specific agreement
- • Answer any questions from you or your family
- • Provide the required independent advice certificate
We provide independent advice
We'll review your Occupation Right Agreement and explain exactly what you are signing up for. We'll highlight any unusual terms and make sure you understand the financial implications.
Book your ORA review appointment. Contact us on 06 835 7394.