Why strata owners really switch strata managers

In strata, the same complaints come up again and again. Missed repairs. Slow responses. No clear answers. Owners usually say it’s about communication or cost, and it is—but not in vague terms. They’re frustrated when things don’t get done, or when no one explains why.

At All Suburbs Strata Management, we bring over 40 years of experience in residential strata management in Greater Sydney, Nepean and the Central Coast. We’ve heard it all before—owners waiting months for reimbursement, chasing quotes or watching minor issues drag out. That’s why we focus on action, clear communication and backing our team with the right internal support. Below are some of the signs that often prompt owners to start looking for a better alternative.

Strata management is a service industry built on reliability. When that starts to slip, issues often go unresolved. We regularly hear from committees who have had to chase repairs, follow up on quotes or step in to organise basic jobs themselves. It is the absence of follow-through that leads them to reconsider who is actually managing their scheme.

In some cases, owners tell us they’ve had to step in just to keep things moving. They’ve arranged their own repairs, covered the cost upfront and waited months to be reimbursed. It’s a clear sign that accountability has been lost.

When no one owns the follow-up, even minor problems start to feel unmanageable. A good strata manager takes responsibility for actioning requests, keeps the committee informed, and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.

Follow-through and communication go hand in hand. Most committees don’t expect instant answers, but they do expect to be kept informed. Problems start when it’s unclear who’s doing what or when they’ll hear back. Owners understandably get frustrated when they have to chase strata managers for basic updates, and particularly don’t appreciate silence or vague replies.

This lack of clarity isn’t limited to day-to-day updates. It often shows up at AGMs, where poorly explained motions leave owners confused or hesitant to vote as they worry it will lead to higher levies. A good manager takes the time to explain what the motion is for, why it matters and whether it addresses a risk or long-term issue.

Committees aren’t looking for constant updates. They want clear answers, reasonable timeframes and confidence that their requests are being managed. When communication is structured and consistent, it builds trust and prevents small issues from escalating.

When it comes to fees, communication often matters more than the price. Most owners are willing to pay fair fees for a service that delivers. The cost of living is rising, and yes, people want to save, but what they really want is value. When owners talk about switching due to cost, it is rarely about the amount. It is about feeling that the service doesn’t measure up. When things are working, the manager is seen as part of the solution, not just an added cost.

Strata owners often lose patience when levies increase but service does not improve. If the same unresolved issues keep piling up, like those gutters still waiting to be cleaned, a fee rise feels hard to justify. In some cases, higher levies reflect broader financial pressures, not poor management, but owners still expect to see results.

In some cases, the issue is not the cost itself but a mismatch in expectations. Owners are not always across current market rates for trades, and that can lead to tension when quotes come in higher than anticipated. A good strata manager helps bridge that gap by explaining the costs, providing options and making sure committees feel informed before they commit to spending.

Every strata scheme is different, and the most effective management comes from a good working relationship. It helps when committees feel understood and comfortable raising concerns. That’s why we focus on matching each scheme with a manager who suits the people, the property and the pace of communication.

At ASSM, we take a team-based approach to strata management. If a manager isn’t the right fit for a particular scheme, we have the depth of experience to offer a smooth reassignment without disrupting service. This gives clients confidence that their property is in capable hands, and it ensures our managers are supported in what can be a complex and demanding role.

We work with a trusted network of contractors who specialise in strata repairs and maintenance across Sydney. This allows us to act quickly when work is needed and ensures common areas are maintained to a high standard. Our team also brings expertise in maintenance planning and budgeting to help committees stay on top of both urgent issues and long-term upkeep.

While communication and cost are the most common reasons owners decide to switch strata managers, those concerns are rarely about a single event. Over time, unresolved issues and lack of follow-through push committees to consider other options.

At ASSM, we listen carefully to both new and long-term clients. We’re confident in the service we deliver, but we also know that no two schemes are the same. Feedback helps us refine our approach and stay responsive to what matters.

If you’re looking for a reliable strata manager, we have over 40 years of experience in strata management for residential, community, commercial and industrial properties.

If your current strata manager is falling short of expectations, secure a professional and qualified team and Contact ASSM today. We make the process easy.