How are Va'ad Bayit fees decided — can the committee set any amount it likes?

No. The Va'ad Bayit prepares an annual budget and presents it to the house association's general meeting for approval. The fee level must be proportionate to the building's actual maintenance costs. If you believe the Va'ad is collecting more than is justified or misallocating funds, you can demand a full accounting at the annual meeting or apply to the Magistrates Court for an audit. Extraordinary expenses above the approved budget also require a separate owners' resolution.