14 July 2023 / Matt Blewitt
What’s the difference between a building manager and a strata manager?
In the context of shared living spaces, the roles of a building manager and a strata manager are important, yet often confused. While a building manager specialises in the maintenance and upkeep of common property, the strata manager takes charge of all day-to-day administrative management matters concerning the shared property.
It’s understandable that there is some confusion surrounding both roles as there are areas of overlap and similarity.
For example, both building managers and strata managers need to be familiar with local building codes, regulations and laws.
However, strata managers typically have additional obligations pertaining to compliance with specific strata legislation and by-laws.
Similarly, both roles involve frequent interaction with stakeholders, although the stakeholders involved differ slightly. Building managers regularly engage with individual tenants to address their concerns and resolve issues. On the other hand, strata managers primarily collaborate with the owners corporation, serving as a liaison between the property owners and the management of the shared property.
The role of the building manager
A building manager has diverse responsibilities encompassing asset management, maintenance and communication. They create and maintain the asset register and preventative maintenance schedule while also issuing work orders and coordinating repairs for any common property. Additionally, building managers serve as the on-site point of contact for owners, residents and contractors.
Periodically, building managers conduct inspections of the common property to monitor its condition and identify any violations of by-laws.
These inspections are vital for maintaining the property in good condition and adhering to rules and regulations. Furthermore, building managers play a crucial role in compliance by coordinating certifications for various aspects such as lifts, swimming pools, fire protection systems and more.
Building managers also handle the registration of property entry and access devices, such as keys, key cards, swipes and remotes. If the common property has a building noticeboard, the building manager will also keep this information current. Another important aspect of their role is maintaining accurate records of costs and expenditure related to contractors authorised by the owners corporation.
The role of the strata manager
A licensed strata manager is appointed by the owners corporation to support the daily management of complex strata schemes with diverse common areas like gyms, pools, car parks and recreational facilities. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operation, financial stability and compliance with governing laws.
They handle administrative duties including preparing the annual budget and for AGMs, distributing agendas and meeting minutes, arranging payment of invoices and issuing strata levy notices on behalf of the owners corporation, dealing with insurance claims and ensuring the proper and accurate management of expenses.
Strata managers are also adept at dispute resolution and staying up-to-date with the latest legislation to ensure compliance within the strata scheme. They possess a comprehensive understanding of the governing laws and regulations, allowing them to provide informed guidance on by-laws and effectively allowing the owners corporation to enforce them when necessary. By proactively addressing conflicts and promoting adherence to the established rules, strata managers foster a harmonious living environment that benefits all residents.
Why choose All Suburbs Strata Management?
The role of a strata manager is extensive, and effective communication is the key to success.
At All Suburbs Strata Management, our strata managers have the experience and the skills mentioned above. They also benefit from our internal administration systems, ongoing training and established relationships with a comprehensive stable of qualified and competent trade services. ASSM strata managers stand out from the rest with proficient communication strategies, a commitment to active listening and an ability to use clear and direct language to address concerns, clarify outcomes and keep stakeholders informed.
Our fees are highly competitive and align with the quality of our service. We are committed to complete transparency, ensuring peace of mind for our clients.
When you are looking to change strata managers or need a strata manager for a new building or development, ASSM has a proven track record in providing excellent strata management to a broad range of small to medium and large complex schemes.
We are not just experts in residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes. At ASSM, we assist numerous developers in preparing for registration and provide strata reports and inspections.
We are one of New South Wales’ most trusted strata management firms.
Contact ASSM today and experience the difference that 40 years of successful strata management will make.
Meet The Author
Matt Blewitt
Licensee in Charge / General Manager
Matt’s career began in property management, and he worked his way through a range of senior roles before returning to the family business. He now oversees ASSM strata portfolios with a practical focus on risk, consistency and keeping things running as they should. He believes clear communication, sound judgement and a willingness to own mistakes when they happen are the foundations of successful strata management.
What keeps Matt motivated is the people he works with, both within the team and across client communities. He understands the pressures owners and committees face and always balances compliance with common sense. This measured approach has been shaped by years on the ground and a genuine desire to do the job right, no matter the challenge.
We provide Australia’s most professional and comprehensive strata management services across Greater Sydney and other parts of NSW. Our expertise spans residential, community, commercial and industrial strata schemes. It’s easy to switch to All Suburbs Strata Management. See the extensive range of suburbs our certified strata managers oversee below.
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FAQs
What’s the difference between a building manager and a strata manager?
A building manager focuses on the day-to-day upkeep and physical maintenance of common property, while a strata manager handles the administrative, financial and compliance matters for the owners corporation.
Who does a building manager report to in a strata scheme?
A building manager is engaged by and reports to the owners corporation, usually under a building management or caretaking agreement, and acts as the on-site contact for residents and contractors.
What does a strata manager’s role involve?
A strata manager prepares budgets, issues levy notices, manages insurance, coordinates meetings and ensures compliance with strata laws and by-laws — acting as the owners corporation’s administrative agent.
Should I contact the building manager or strata manager about maintenance issues?
For immediate physical issues like a leaking common area, broken access devices or daily repairs, the building manager is usually the first point of contact. For financial, legal or by-law matters (like levies or compliance), contact the strata manager.
Do both managers need knowledge of building regulations?
Yes — both building and strata managers should be familiar with relevant building codes and safety regulations, but the strata manager’s role also emphasises statutory compliance and governance.
Can a strata scheme operate without a building manager?
Yes. Smaller strata schemes often operate with just a strata manager, who may coordinate contractors for maintenance tasks. Larger schemes with extensive facilities usually benefit from appointing a dedicated building manager for on-site operations.