Retirement

Do I have a lazy strata manager?
Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

Do I have a lazy strata manager?

In almost every area of our lives, we rely on exchanging goods and services with other people. But sometimes, we lack the results we expect from service providers. This can have a huge impact on our businesses, lives and even our trust.

Here is how you can tell if your strata manager is lazy and what you can do to get better services.

1) Non-responsive

If you constantly have to follow up or try to get a hold of your strata manager to then get no response or acknowledgement, this is a bad sign. You need responsive and pro-active managers, especially when things are urgent.

Some people prefer to only be contacted when there are problems and just have things managed behind the scenes. That is fine if you have arranged that with your strata manager. But generally speaking, it is important to have good communication with your manager.

If a problem surfaces, you want to have the peace of mind that they will respond quickly. Perhaps it will take time to solve the problem, but at least you know they are working on it. Having someone responsive is essential and is a tell-tale sign of a good manager.

2) Lateness

Depending on the services you require, you may need reports, invoices or items mailed/emailed to you from time to time or regularly.

If reports are consistently late, invoices are always sent at random times and documents take too long to arrive, then this is another big sign of a lazy manager.

This is an indication of bad organisation skills and the company being overwhelmed which usually impacts other important areas of your service.

A good strata management company in Sydney stays on top of all the reports and paperwork that you require. You would know when you will receive these items when you have a consistent manager.

3) Complaints

Not all complaints fall under the jurisdiction of your strata manager, but if certain areas that they should be managing are not being handled properly, then there’s no doubt you will notice complaints about it.

This makes you and your property look unprofessional and can cause a bad reputation. A complaint is never desirable, especially if you are paying someone to manage that part of your strata. This is an obvious sign of laziness or incapability.

What can you do?

These are just a few signs of a lazy strata manager, but what exactly can you do about it?

If your strata manager in Sydney is exhibiting any or all of these signs, then the first step is to have a frank conversation. It is important to be vocal and have an official conversation about your concerns and queries.

This is the test. If things don’t change after you converse with them, then it is probably time to look for another manager.

What makes a good strata manager infographic

If you decide that you want to change strata managers, check out our article on how to do that here.

You don’t want to go from bad to worse, so make sure you are getting the best. Here is an article on what to look for in strata managers.

Here at Strata & Co., we pride ourselves on excellent service and avoid all the signs of a lazy strata manager. We have experienced and licensed staff local to Sydney.

What are you waiting for? Contact us today at 1300 033 947 to find out how we can help you and your property.

Best indoor plants for strata
Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

Best indoor plants for strata

It is not uncommon for strata owners to look for ways to improve the common areas of their buildings. Sydney strata is an ideal location for a host of indoor plants.

Not all plants are suitable for indoor use, however, and having the wrong plants inside can end up giving you more work than required.

Also, if plants die and look ugly, then they become a waste of money and provide an unprofessional image. Let’s look at some of the best indoor plants that you can use in your strata building.

Chinese EvergreenChinese Evergreen

Profile: Also known as a painted drop tongue, this plant is great for indoor use as it is resilient. It produces dark green leaves that grow on long stems. This is a slow-growing plant but has simple beauty once mature.

Caring for: Moderate to light sunlight is enough and it can survive fine with shaded light. If the plant is evenly moist, it will thrive well indoors.

Benefits: Besides being easy to care for, this plant is also perfect for decorating tables. And if it ever grows too large, the stems can be trimmed easily.

 

 

 

Weeping FigWeeping Fig

Profile: From the ficus family, this plant can grow from one to two metres tall. It is a Northern Australian native but works well all over Australia. It has slender branches and small leaves.

Caring for: It requires bright sun and should remain moist. Also, it should not sit in water as this can rot the leaves. Pruning should be done as this plant can grow extremely tall otherwise, but pruning is easy.

Benefits: Weeping fig is one of the best air quality purifiers available. It removes toxic chemicals in the air and it also looks great.

 

 

Pothos

Pothos

Profile: This potted plant is a great starter for many people as it is super easy to care for and is beautiful. Owners of this plant should be careful though because ingesting it can be harmful. It should mainly be used in areas that are not accessible to young children who may eat it.

Caring for: Pothos can live and thrive in low-lit areas, so they are suitable for staircases, bathrooms or office spaces. They can be planted in dry soil or in water and are great for pruning and regrowing.

Benefits: This plant is hardy and can survive in soil or in a water vase. It grows beautifully in a kind of vine shape which makes it perfect for window sills, shelves or desks.

 

 

Iron PlantIron Plant

Profile: The iron plant, also known as the cast-iron or ballroom plant, is extremely durable. It is highly favoured by people who are too busy to own house plants but still want one. It has deep green leaves that provide a wonderful pop of colour to boring areas.

Caring for: This is one of the easiest plants to care for, making it suitable for strata buildings. They can last in hot or cold weather and are fine in dry soil. It is a slow-growing plant, meaning that it won’t need pruning for a while. And even then, it is simple to maintain.

Benefits: This plant is perfect for those who have all the other plants they have owned, die. It is super resilient and the large, green leaves look beautiful. This vibrant plant is great for making bold statements, whilst enhancing common areas and being easy to care for.

 

Fiddle Fig LeafFiddle Fig Leaf

Profile: This plant is highly fashionable right now for its large leaves and quite pretty build. They can grow very large, making them perfect for high-ceiling but perhaps small rooms. They are best used as a floor plant and can work well in the corner of rooms. They are harder to take care of than other plants but even a small fiddle fig is remarkable.

Caring for: They require a balance between sunlight and water. The soil should not be too wet and they should not be in direct sunlight all day, hence why the corner of a room may be best. They can be pruned easily and may require it as they can grow over two metres tall.

Benefits: This plant has air-purifying qualities and it looks amazing. You will be hard-pressed to find another plant of its type that can fill a room and work well indoors. This style of plant is great for open strata common areas.

 

Peace LilyPeace Lily

Profile: For those who love flowering plants, but are worried they will die, the peace lily is for you. It is an ideal plant for apartment buildings and strata because it can survive in lowlight settings, even growing well under fluorescent lights. The white flowers produced really pop amongst the bright green leaves.

Caring for: This plant, when indoors, typically grows to around 40 centimetres. It requires consistent moisture, part sunlight and part shade in order to thrive.

Benefits: This plant is super easy to care for, produces beautiful white flowers and works well under artificial light. It is no wonder these are one of the most common houseplants.

 

 

Snake PlantSnake Plant

Profile: Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, this plant is considered one of the most resilient available. This plant is awesome as being neglected, yet remaining not only alive, but looking great. Scientists have found that this plant is also one of the best at purifying toxins from the air. For strata owners who want an easy to care for and functional plant, the snake plant is the best choice.

Caring for: The main thing to know about this plant is the leaves can rot if the soil cannot drain. If the plant is in a soil-draining pot, then it will likely survive whatever you throw at it. It can last in low to high sun and cold to hot temperatures.

Benefits: This plant is versatile, pretty and great at cleaning the air. It is an ideal plant for any strata complex. Also, it can easily be duplicated, meaning you can plant more and more and have a stable supply of greenery in your strata building.

 


 

These are just some of the best strata plants around. Of course, there may be more, and your specific building may benefit from an alternative type.

Strata & Co. cares about all types and aspects of strata no matter how big or small. Call us today to discuss how we can custom serve you at 1300 033 947. Achieve and maintain the best strata complex with us because we offer the most comprehensive strata management services in Sydney.

What to look for in a strata management company
Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

What to look for in a strata management company

If you own a strata building, you may already have experience with strata management services. Perhaps you are unhappy with your service provider, or maybe you are looking for your first strata manager. Either way we will explore the main things you should be looking for when selecting a strata management company.

Comprehensive

Not all strata service providers are created equal. Some only provide basic services; others are pre-packaged plans. It is best to choose a manager that can do it all.

It can be time-consuming to have a strata manager that fails to manage every area of your strata. You then must fill in the gaps and compensate for their lack of services. It can also be more expensive to have to deal with multiple points of contact.

Having a strata manager than can act as your main contact and provide services that cover all your needs is essential.

No area of your strata should be left uncovered – and Strata & Co., is the only strata management of the kind in Sydney that produces complete services. With us, you are covered.

Local

Having managers that know your area is essential for effective strata management. Different areas have different needs, challenges and regulations – and only local strata companies can truly assist you.

Also, being local means that you are less likely to be left behind or forgotten as distant providers can get caught up with their own areas. Having local expertise that genuinely cares for you is key.

Fully licensed

This point may sound obvious, but your strata provider choice should be fully licensed. This will ensure industry knowledge and accountability.

A mistake in strata paperwork, systems or management can be costly and a real hassle. Having fully licensed managers ensure you get qualified advice, action and protection.

Strata & Co. not only has 100% licensed staff, but also industry knowledge in all areas of strata – from residential, commercial and corporate. This becomes especially important when legal work needs to be completed.

Customised

Just like how not all providers are created equal, no two strata buildings are the same as well. Each complex will face its own needs and challenges. Having a strata company that tailors the service based on your specific needs is crucial.

Otherwise, you will be left with uncovered areas of your strata which can cost you in the long run. Having bespoke plans means you get the coverage and services you deserve.

 


These are just some main areas that you should be looking for in a strata company. And Strata & Co. only offers the best for you!

If you are unhappy with your current provider or perhaps need your first strata manager, then give our friendly, local and comprehensive staff a call at 1300 033 947 to see how we can help you.

Green strata ideas
Commercial, Community, Residential, Retirement

Green strata ideas

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?

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

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

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

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?

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

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.