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    Green strata ideas
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Green strata ideas

    2019-10-100

    The thought of becoming more environmentally friendly has become a global effort. Many areas of business that would previously ignore green options are joining efforts.

    There are many incentives to becoming greener, whether it’s financial subsidiaries, marketing opportunities or peace-of-mind for residents. In this article, we will discuss some areas strata owners can implement eco-friendly choices to not only help them, but the environment, too.

    Solar power

    Perhaps one of the most obvious green installation options available – solar power can be a great way to save energy. Large buildings will likely be unable to be completely solar powered, but even having some of the energy use be supplied by the sun can help.

    Solar power is not only an investment for your building but also for the environment. In fact, some areas in NSW have government incentives for installing solar panels.

    Competent strata managers like Strata & Co. would be able to assist you in knowing who qualifies for subsidies. The sun is a huge source of energy and powering your building with it is a great option.

    Double-glazed windows

    This is a simple option, but it can have a big impact in the long run. By having double-glazed glass in a city like Sydney that experiences quite beautiful weather, buildings can easily regulate their temperature. This cuts down on heating and cooling.

    Studies show that by reducing the consumption of fuel for heating and cooling, CO2 levels are dramatically reduced in suburban areas. It is a small addition to buildings but can really help.

    Lighting

    By making the right choices in lighting, you can drastically change your strata and help the environment. LED lights are energy efficient and are a great alternative. LEDs also save you money, with some businesses saving up to 20% per year.

    Another way to perhaps improve lighting is through sensors. People may forget to turn off light, but if rooms have sensors, then the lights can be automated. This is especially helpful for bathrooms or common areas.

    Water

    Conserving water, especially in Sydney where there are water restrictions, is vital. One way to ensure water usage is maximised is perhaps having automated sinks. Again, people often leave taps running and this is a huge waste of water.

    Another simple method is by having all leaks in the building dealt with. Leaking taps can waste large amounts of water on long periods. By fixing them early, you eliminate the problem.

    Rooftop gardens or plants

    Having a rooftop garden or indoor plants is a highly effective and beautiful method of being greener. It literally adds green to your building.

    Studies have shown that air quality can be improved by 90% by some plant varieties. Rooftop gardens also help foster a community vibe and can help people develop the habit of gardening and appreciating nature.

    Even small choices can have huge impact over time. If you are interested in implementing any of these steps or perhaps want to hear about more ways you can help the environment, give Strata & Co. a call today at 1300 033 947. Our friendly and local staff are available to help you make smarter strata choices. Visit our website for other strata management services.

    Should I have a rooftop garden_
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Should I have a strata rooftop garden?

    2019-10-030

    Having a rooftop garden is highly effective in increasing the overall design, feel and use of your strata complex. However, any decision regarding your strata should be made with care and analysis. Not every choice is feasible or beneficial, which is why having  reliable and expert strata management services is often the best solution.

    Sadly, not every building has the advantage of being able to have a garden on the roof. Some strata complexes have either limited access or perhaps industrial units located on the roof which makes growing one difficult. But there are still things that can be done to improve your strata.

    There are many untapped benefits from having a rooftop garden and in this article, we are going to explore some of the main pros in order to help you make the right decision.

     

    Sense of community

    When living in a highly urbanised area, residents can often feel disconnected even though they may be surrounded by a lot of people. Usually the disconnect between nature and people causes negative results.

    With a rooftop garden, it will give people the opportunity to relax, meet, have a hobby or just enjoy right near their home or office.

    It is more inviting to spark conversation when surrounded by numerous plants and in an open space as opposed to a cramped hallway or lobby. Open spaces and nature provide a catalyst for those with similar planting interests to perhaps bond or develop a mutual friendship.

    Australia often has amazing weather, so giving residents a place to get outdoors and enjoy it whilst still being close to their home is invaluable. BBQs, meet and greets, dates or even community events can all be hosted on a rooftop. And with a garden, it is much more likely to be used.Sense of community

    Environmentally friendly

    In a busy city like Sydney, it can be easy to neglect nature and just focus on industry. A rooftop garden is an easy and fun way at adding nature to concrete jungles.

    These gardens can be extremely beneficial to the welfare of residents and the environment, with plants producing more oxygen and helping remove carbon dioxide.

    Your rooftop garden may consist of herbs, vegetables and or fruits, which can provide incentive for people to help with the caretaking or even encourage the use of the rooftop.

    Having a compost bin can allow people to reuse scraps and encourage recycling. This also helps the strata owners to cut down on waste.

    The environment is something a lot of people are concerned about these days, so having a place where residents can help do their part and feel like they are making a difference is very beneficial.Environmentally friendly

    Beautiful value

    A well designed and maintained rooftop can increase the value of the property significantly. Choosing the right kind of plants will go a long way with making a desirable escape in your strata.

    Having a functional, yet stylish design is a great marketing tool as it is an attractive feature for modern strata buildings. Residents not only love well-kept gardens, but if they have a hand in maintaining and improving it, it allows them to feel accomplished – like they are a part of beautifying this outside space.

    Beautiful value

    All in all, if you can have a functional and beautiful rooftop garden, then we recommend it. They build a sense of community, they are good for the environment and they are stunningly valuable.

    At Strata & Co., we provide comprehensive strata management services including advice and guidance.

    For more information, contact our friendly staff at 1300 033 947. We love and know all things strata and can assist you in building a positive community today.

    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Cracking concerns in my strata

    2019-09-170

    Cracks in your strata, whether hairline or large, often cause people to fear. Most don’t know that cracks in buildings are often natural and perfectly fine in the right conditions. But serious cracking problems can result in major damage, so it makes sense that no matter how big or small the crack is, residents get worried.

    In strata, it is important that potential risks and damages are mitigated as early as possible and that your strata community remains at peace and calm. In this blog, we will discuss how to deal with cracking concerns in your strata.

    Do not panic

    It is important to know that small cracks within buildings in NSW are normal. The land naturally becomes dry and wet depending on seasons and rainfall. Dryer land shrinks whilst wet land expands. This means that throughout the year, building foundations may expand and shrink slightly. However, this is expected and is not cause for immediate concern. In order to stop residents from panicking, ensure they understand this information beforehand.

    Strata owners shouldn’t brush off complaints either. If cracks appear, they should be monitored.

    What to do

    Expert strata management companies will understand and have the resources to deal with serious cracking problems. If cracks appear, then the best immediate thing to do is to take a photo of the crack with a ruler and timestamp. This way you know how wide the crack is and you can see if it is growing significantly larger over a short period of time.

    If large cracks are present already, then strata managers will know who to call and consult about sorting the issue out. Again, it may be nothing to worry about so monitoring is key.

    Strata managers dealing with issues

    Comprehensive strata companies in Sydney will understand exactly how to deal with various issues such as cracking. Strata & Co. can help with executing all things regarding repair and maintenance. Here is a list of some of our repair services:

    • Proactive maintenance, rather than reactive
    • Arrange building inspections and reports
    • Arrange for appropriately qualified contractors to undertake routine repairs and maintenance of the common property and/or specified owners corporation property. Provided that any expenditure incurred by the Strata Manager on such matters, does not exceed expenditure limit unless approval has been given
    • Obtain quotations for repair, maintenance and replacement of common property or specified property vested in the owners corporation
    • Liaise with tradesmen about work to be carried out on the strata scheme
    • Arrange and execute contracts pursuant to the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW)

    As strata owners, you want the best for your property, but you also want convenience and simplicity. If issues arise, having responsive and qualified strata managers behind you is essential.

    Strata & Co. specialises in making strata simple. We are a one-stop-shop for all your strata needs and can help mitigate the risk and deal with cracking issues within strata complexes on all levels – from residential, Mixed Use, Commercial and Community Schemes. For advice or more information on how to switch strata managers, contact our friendly and local team at 1300 033 947.

    Dealing with strata mould
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Dealing with strata mould

    2019-09-130

    The responsibility and removal of strata mould varies depending on the location and its cause. But regardless, mould is dangerous and can be costly, both financially and to a strata’s reputation. Let’s look at what mould is, how it forms and who is responsible for it in strata complexes.

    What is mould?

    Mould is a naturally occurring fungi that is actually vital to the ecosystem. Mould is not critical for a human’s living area, however, and although it is natural, it must be maintained and mitigated because it can be harmful to people and pets.

    If there is a damp or moist area with poor ventilation and limited exposure to sunlight, then you should expect mould to form. A common area of mould growth is bathrooms. This is due to the steam from showers and water leaks from pipes getting caught in tiles or ceiling gaps.

    Mould grows and spreads, producing airborne spores that travel and can be inhaled or digested. Many studies show that mould is linked to poor air quality, asthma and allergic reactions. If weak immune systems are exposed to this, then the symptoms can escalate even further. Despite its nasty effects, there are very few cases of toxic mould in homes. But still, why take the chance?

    There are over 10,000 species of mould and most exist outdoors. It helps breakdown and decompose organic matter. Though almost every home has some mould somewhere, we do want to minimise the amount inside our homes as much as possible.

    Who is responsible?

    Every individual has their role to play in stopping mould: ensuring your space gets adequate sunlight (if possible), properly ventilating your home/property, avoiding and reporting leaks or water damage, ensuring that areas are clean and removing organic waste properly. These individual acts can help mitigate mould growth. But even after all this, there may still be growth occurrences.

    If the mould growth is in common areas, seek and notify your strata managers immediately. Tackling the problem as soon as possible limits the potential spread. If you have mould in your living space, then face it immediately. You should ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and inspect the room for any potential water leaks or structural damage. If the mould is occurring due to building defects, then consult your strata manager. But if it is due to personal living arrangements, then it is simply a matter of removing the mould carefully.

    Mould is often seen as a big scary thing to people, when in fact most of these is harmless. Even harmless mould, however, needs to be taken care of, before it spreads or develops into something worse. Having clean common areas is essential—and your local strata managers can help make sure that mould or other common problems are minimised and removed.

    If you are unhappy with your current managers or are looking for more comprehensive strata management services, then call your local Strata & Co. managers at 1300 033 947. Our fully licensed and experienced staff make all things strata simple.

    Water damage and my strata
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Water damage and my strata

    2019-09-050

    Water damage is a tricky issue as it can appear in areas of strata that are uncommon or difficult to access. Water travels in tight places and can flow far which makes the origin hard to pinpoint, leaving extensive damage.

    In strata complexes, it can be even harder to determine the fault of the water damage and how to fix it. To help you out, let’s examine common water issues as well as how to resolve them.

    Common issues

    During heavy storms or bad weather, wind and rain can cause exterior damage to the building. This can lead to cracks or openings that allow water to seep into these areas and travel throughout the interior of the building. When this happens, it can cause concrete damage, wood rotting, paint bubbling or leaky roofs. Sometimes, residents may absently leave a window or door open during a storm, and that too can cause damage.

    Whatever the damage may be, it is best to take photos and contact the building manager or strata manager immediately in order for them to perform the necessary actions to fixing it.

    The slightest water problems can lead to mould or mildew build-up which can cause more dangerous health consequences if not dealt with.

    Responsibility

    A common question when issues arise is ‘who is responsible?’. This doesn’t necessarily mean anyone is at fault and an individual has to take the responsibility of dealing with the issue.

    It may be damage to property that leads to water seeping through, or perhaps blocked drains overflowing. An issue such as water flowing from a balcony onto a property below can have devastating results if untreated. Either way, your strata manager will be able to help bottom out the problem.

    Defining where water damage begins is often the hardest part, but whatever the issue is, it’s best to discuss it with your local strata manager. They can help you reduce your stress and deal with the problem with peace of mind.

    According to the NSW Government Fair Trading website, the following issues are defined with who is responsible.

     

    Strata Plumbing IssueWho is responsible?
    Burst pipe in the bathroomThe owners corporation is responsible for burst pipes in a boundary wall, while the owner takes responsibility for internal walls. If the pipe services multiple units, however, it will be an issue for the owners corporation.
    Water from shower not drainingAny plumbing sited beneath the floor is dealt with by the owners corporation.
    The shower head or taps are faultyThese are the responsibility of the individual lot owner.
    Broken kitchen sink causing water damageEverything included in the airspace of a unit’s bathroom or kitchen – rather than beneath floors or behind walls – is the responsibility of the individual owner including baths, showers, toilets, sinks and dishwashers. Therefore, any damage caused by a leaky sink is the owner’s problem.

    However, check with your owners corporation, as many have comprehensive insurance policies that cover damage to fixtures occurring within units.

    A unit is damp and mouldyMould and mildew on internal walls is the responsibility of the individual owner. Any damp caused by water seepage through the external walls or floor, however, should be taken care of by the body corporate.
    Water spilling from balcony aboveWhile the body corporate is responsible for water running off common property, it can’t be held responsible for over-vigorous watering of plants on the balcony overhead. A quiet word with the offending neighbour might be all it takes to fix this.

     

    Strata & Co. is your local strata management company that works with you in order to maintain and repair strata properties of all sizes and uses. We understand all the laws and regulations regarding damages, responsibility as well as the best practices in repair and maintenance.

    With years of service under our belt, you can give our friendly staff a call at 1300 033 947 to see how we can give you the most inclusive strata management services you deserve.

    Why pay for strata management
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Why pay for strata management?

    2019-08-230

    Oftentimes we are looking for ways to cut expenses and to save money. After all, businesses in Sydney won’t survive without being smart financially.

    When it comes to paying for strata solutions, some may think it is just another unnecessary cost. Instead, Strata Management services should be considered an investment. In this article, we will explore why paying for Strata Management essential and how to know if you are getting the best service possible.

    The importance of Strata Management

    Your strata property is a physical building—and leaving it unattended can lead to breakdown, deterioration and worst, costly repairs. Buildings that are used without upkeep or efficient management can result in all sorts of issues and possibly even pose a risk to its occupants. No matter how good or new your strata building is, it needs to be managed proactively and correctly.

    In Sydney especially, property prices rise and fall quite dramatically. Investing in Strata Management can help maintain your property’s value, even after years of use. We have moved away from a society that is all about replacing and disposing. Now, we are heading towards one that is about conservation and maintenance. This explains why managing your physical building properly helps reinvent the future.

    Those who use your property, whether owners, tenants or commercial businesses, are directly affected by how the building functions. With all the laws and regulations surrounding strata, having someone advising and maintaining these areas for you is a huge advantage. This isn’t just about the complex, but more importantly, it is about doing right by everyone who uses it. Effective strata services will make everyone’s life better, which in turn reflects positively on your building.

    Choosing the right Strata Manager

    Professional, qualified and experienced Strata companies in Sydney provide knowledge and experience that is invaluable. Often, those who choose DIY management end up having to pay for extra advice or services that otherwise would have been covered by their strata company. Not to mention, the cost of mistakes due to self management or even bad strata companies.

    Developing a personal relationship with your Strata Management is essential. You need a company that will watch out for you and your investments, one that is transparent and won’t surprise you with hidden costs. Paying for this service should increase the value of your assets in the long-term so be sure that you find a Strata Manager that is reliable and happy to answer any questions you may have.

    With anything we spend money on, we ask, “why pay for this?” With Strata Management, the answer should be clear that a professional and experienced team will work with you to ensure that your strata is maintained, regulated and continuously improving, ensuring happy owners, tenants, business operators or anyone who steps onto the property.

    If you are in need of strata services in Sydney or perhaps are looking to change from your current provider, talk to our friendly and experienced staff at Strata & Co. With years of expertise helping Sydney’s strata owners, we can discuss your needs as well as the comprehensive services we provide.

    Give us a call at our local office at 1300 033 947 to see why paying for strata management with us is a worthwhile investment.

    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    Duties of a strata manager

    2019-08-190

    Did you know that Strata is actually an Australian innovation that has spread globally? The duties of a Strata Manager can vary based on state or territory but in this article, we will look at Strata Management in Sydney.

     

    Responsibilities of a Strata Manager

    The duties of a Strata Manager have grown and developed over the years as strata has become increasingly popular. From residential to commercial and Mixed-Use complexes, good Strata Managers must adapt to the diverse tasks required.

    Not all Strata Management companies are equal, though. Just like any industry, you get the good with the bad.

    Strata Management is better handled by professionals who can take care of your assets and ensure everything is managed smoothly. At Strata & Co, we have a team of experts who can administer your commercial and residential properties. There is often strict legislation surrounding strata and we have the expertise to effectively run, advise and maintain strata throughout Sydney.

    A lot of the time, self-managed strata owner forget about a law of regulation that can have costly ramifications. A strata manager will be able to help you avoid legal mistakes. Strata & Co has been managing strata for clients all over Sydney for years knowing the industry inside and out.

    Protecting the lot owners as well as the tenants are key duties of a Strata Manager. But that is not the limit of their role. Some of their other duties include:

    • Accounting Services
    • Insurance Claims and Valuations
    • Secretarial
    • Meetings
    • By-laws
    • Executive Committee Meetings
    • Annual General Meetings
    • Repairs and Maintenance

    What we can do

    Regular Strata Management providers have a limit to what they can do and offer their clients, but Strata & Co. goes above and beyond, offering the most comprehensive Strata Management services in Sydney. Some of our duties include:

    • Hiring and Management (including payroll administration) of building employees, such as onsite Manager
    • Review of essential services such as fire safety
    • Management of major refurbishment projects
    • Management of defect rectification in new buildings
    • Building condition surveys and scheduled maintenance programs
    • Arranging maintenance and repairs
    • Authorizing and processing invoices
    • Maintaining key register
    • Arranging security and concierge services
    • Arranging building services
    • Organising access for contractors
    • Arranging building certifications
    • Managing a greater volume of enquiries from residents

    It is important to understand what your Strata Manager is able to manage so that no part of your strata is left unchecked. People often confuse the role of a Strata Manager with a property manager, but they are completely different. Strata Managers can encompass more than just property advice, they can provide a holistic approach to Strata Management and your complex.

    Our Strata Managers are professional and upstanding with all laws and regulations, but at the same time, ready to answer all your questions and break down any legal jargon. Our team works with you to ensure all your needs are met and your property is taken care of as if it were our own. We will provide a reliable and efficient service with no hidden fees.

    As one of the leading strata companies in Sydney, we make strata simple by being your local managers that offer a one-stop-shop solution for all your strata needs. Give us a call at 1300 033 947 and talk with our friendly staff to see all services we can help you with.

    What is strata body corporate management
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    What is strata body corporate management?

    2019-08-150

    Body corporate is also known as Owners Corporation and it is responsible for selecting the way the common areas of the building are managed. It must function within all laws and regulations. Often, Body Corporate groups will get a strata company to manage this for them. Otherwise, a voluntary executive committee can opt to do the work themselves.

    There is a lot of responsibility involved in strata, so opting to do it yourself can be risky and can lead to mistakes, damages, complaints or legal repercussions. Having an expert and comprehensive strata company handle your needs can ensure peace of mind and efficiency.

    A strong corporate presence in a bustling city like Sydney is important. Common areas are often where first impressions are made. Having the right strata management services can make a big impact on your property value, common areas and building maintenance.

    Numerous studies have concluded that the physical environments people are exposed to affects their mental health. In other words, the building you own or need managed will affect yourself, visitors and other residents, whether negatively or positively. Excellent Strata Management can help improve the overall atmosphere of your living environments.

    Unfortunately, issues can arise with almost anything today and that includes your strata complex. Mitigate the risks and make it easier to dissolve issues by using an experienced Strata Manager. Rules and regulations must be kept – and it can be time consuming and annoying for busy businesses to have to stop and deal with these problems. Stay ahead and aware, but maintain tranquility knowing that you have reliable managers to deal with these tasks.

    It is crucial that Owners Corporations clearly grasp the framework of ownership and guidelines especially if multiple owners are involved. This will ensure successful management of the strata can be conducted and all legal requirements are up to code.

    Running an Owners Corporation is made a lot easier when the bins are emptied, and the landscaping is maintained without having to organise and manage this without a proactive Strata Manager. Strata & Co. can do a lot more than just that. We provide a holistic approach to Strata Management. We are a one-stop-shop, we can handle the day-to-day upkeep as well as financial, legal and insurance matters regarding strata.

    If you need strata management in Sydney, then save time, money and resources by using one all-inclusive company like Strata & Co. Give us a call at 1300 033 947 today.

    How do I change strata management companies
    Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

    How do I change strata management companies?

    2019-08-070

    When it comes to your strata property, a comprehensive and responsive Strata Management is what you would expect. After all, the key to the efficient running of your property depends on this.

    Have you ever felt like you’re being ignored by your strata manager or that you are just another number on a list? Have the thoughts “how can I change Strata Management companies?” ever crossed your mind? If so, perhaps it’s time to find a new strata management company to manage your property. Changing companies may just be the best decision you make regarding your strata, and it is easier than you think.

     

    Look over the Agency Agreements

    Firstly, you should check and assess any Agency Agreements you have with your current strata service provider. By looking over the agreement, you may find useful information such as termination clauses, voiding of the agreement, expectations of both parties and more. The agreement may also bind you to this specific provider for a fixed amount of time. In such, looking over the agreement can help you know exactly what you are bound and not bound by. You don’t want to break any conditions that may void any disputes you can pursue.

    Decide on an alternative Strata Manager

    After you decide and enact the process of replacing your Strata Manager, you should know which company you want to replace your current management service with. It is rare to find a Strata Management company in Sydney that is a one-stop-shop for all the strata services you may need. Strata & Co., however, specialises in all thing’s strata. We provide the most comprehensive, customisable suites available in all of Sydney.

    Whether looking for a company like ours or not, you are going to want to obtain quotes and compare what each company offer. The reason you are looking to change is probably because you weren’t happy, so efficient research and care will help you avoid another bad strata company.

    Call an Extraordinary Meeting (EGM)

    After you have looked over the Agency Agreements and know where you stand, then you can call an Extraordinary Meeting (EGM) in order for the majority of Owners to agree on appointing a new strata manager. The Executive Committee can call a meeting for all owners to attend and a majority vote can be agreed upon in order to change strata service managers. For this meeting to be valid, a quorum needs to be reached. This is where 25% of owners are either in attendance or proxy vote. The meeting should have enough notice given (7 clear days, including enough time for postal notice) in order for all owners to attend. Minutes should be recorded to keep track of the details, especially who attended and motions discussed. Strata & Co. can hold this meeting for owner for a smooth, seamless process, ensuring legislative compliance at all times.

    Draft new Agency Agreements

    Once you settle on a company that the owners agrees with, then you can draft new Agency Agreements as necessary and negotiate as needed. It is important to be thorough and detailed. The best thing to do is be open with your new Strata Management company. Meet face to face and discuss potential business in person. If you form a good working relationship, then the strata company can better understand your needs and wants.

    Each strata complex is different and there are varying levels of strata that are managed throughout Sydney. Changing strata companies may be different for your complex, so the best thing to do is talk to your strata company directly or perhaps another service provider that can offer tailored advice.

    As mentioned, Strata & Co. strata management services for all types of complexes and we only have licensed professionals to assist you with all your needs. To make the switch in strata today, give us a call at 1300 033 947.

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