Strata Management Services in NSW: What Owners Corporations Need to Know
Strata management involves hiring a professional strata manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of a property and ensure compliance with NSW strata laws. A strata manager works on behalf of the owners corporation (also called a body corporate) to:
- Manage finances and collect levies
- Coordinate repairs and maintenance of common property
- Organise meetings and maintain records
- Act as a liaison between owners, residents, and external bodies
- Provide expert advice on by-laws, building rules, and legislative matters
Key Responsibilities of a Strata Manager
- Building Management and Maintenance
- Coordinate repairs and maintenance for common areas such as gardens, hallways, and pools
- Ensure Work Health and Safety (WHS) compliance and organise inspections
- Arrange and manage building insurance policies and claims
- Financial Management
- Prepare budgets and issue levy notices to owners
- Collect levies and manage trust accounts
- Pay invoices promptly and keep transparent records
- Assist with long-term financial planning, including 10-year capital works fund plans
- Administration and Meetings
- Organise and prepare for Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and committee meetings
- Send meeting notices, agendas, and minutes to owners
- Maintain official strata records, including the strata roll and by-laws
- Serve as the primary contact for owners and residents
- Legal and Compliance Support
- Ensure compliance with NSW strata legislation and by-laws
- Provide guidance on by-law enforcement and assist with dispute resolution
- Issue notices to owners for by-law breaches
How Strata Management Works in Practice
- Appointment – The owners corporation appoints a licensed strata manager through a majority vote at a general meeting. This can be done at an AGM or EGM.
- Service Agreement – A detailed strata management agreement outlines the manager’s specific tasks and responsibilities. In NSW, most managers use agreements prepared by Strata Community Australia (SCA). Check if your manager is an SCA member.
- Operational Support – The strata manager handles financial, administrative, and maintenance tasks to ensure the scheme runs smoothly.
- Liaison Role – They act as a communication link between the strata committee, owners, and external authorities.
- Expert Guidance – A professional manager offers advice on compliance, finances, and building maintenance to protect your property investment.