Strata manager vs building manager: 5 key processes they each undertake

The day-to-day operations of a strata property are typically handled by a strata manager and a building manager, both of whom have different sets of roles and responsibilities. When it comes to the roles of a strata manager vs building manager, it’s crucial to define the processes of both lines of work. 

Both professionals contribute to the functioning and maintenance of a strata property and play an important role in keeping it in good condition while complying with all regulations expected of a strata property. 

Knowing the processes involved in these roles helps strata committee members and residents know who to look for to address any problems with their strata property. It may also be difficult to distinguish the role of strata manager vs building manager, as some tasks may overlap.  

Understanding the differences between both professions is critical for the smooth functioning of a strata property. That said, let’s explore five key processes a strata manager and a building manager undertake in further detail below. 

What does a strata manager do? 

A strata manager can take the form of an individual expert or strata company that has been appointed by the Council of the Strata Company to oversee the day-to-day operations and smooth running of a strata property. Their roles and responsibilities typically include the following: 

1. Managing financial matters 

A strata manager is responsible for facilitating the financial affairs of the strata company. This includes collecting levies from property owners, maintaining accurate financial records, and paying bills on time. 

2. Ensuring smooth administration and communication

Strata managers attend meetings on behalf of the strata company. During these meetings, they maintain meeting minutes and facilitate communication between the strata company, owners, and stakeholders. 

3. Facilitating record maintenance 

As a strata manager, it is important to update the strata database and maintain the strata roll. Record-keeping encompasses updating the strata’s contact information list and strata residents’ details. 

4. Assisting with compliance 

Strata committee members may find themselves incurring heavy penalties for not complying with the latest state-mandated strata regulations. A strata manager ensures full compliance with the latest safety standards, building codes, and other strata regulations. 

5. Solving disputes between different parties 

Dispute or conflict resolution is an area of expertise that a strata manager has. If strata committee members have conflicting interests with a vendor or supplier, or if strata residents have a disagreement, a strata manager can step in and play the role of mediator.

Now that the processes a strata manager undertakes are clear, the processes a building manager undertakes must be ascertained. 

What does a building manager do? 

When distinguishing between a strata manager vs building manager, it’s clear that building managers handle more of the operational and maintenance aspects of a strata property. This position is also appointed by the Council of the Strata Company, with the expectation that a building manager will take care of the common areas of a strata residence alongside other shared facilities. 

For strata buildings with many blocks and lots, having a building manager becomes even more crucial to optimise building management. That said, a building manager’s roles and responsibilities include: 

1. Ensuring regular maintenance 

Building managers typically oversee that maintenance work is done on strata properties, such as waste management, garden and ground maintenance, and other cleaning duties. They ensure that common areas look well-maintained and presentable. 

2. Making sure repair and maintenance work are done in a timely manner 

Building managers coordinate and oversee the repair and maintenance work of common areas and shared facilities, which include swimming pools, common hallways, washrooms, playground facilities, and elevators. They also ensure that any repair work is resolved on time. 

3. Liaising with vendors and suppliers on contractual matters

Building managers are tasked with handling matters concerning contractual matters. They can negotiate contractual agreements when dealing with multiple suppliers and vendors to ensure proper service quotations are received and any repair is carried out efficiently. 

4. Managing crises 

In the event of an emergency, such as a fire breakout or a stalled elevator, building managers are entrusted to coordinate contingency plans that ensure people are evacuated or directed to safety on time. 

5. Assuring the safety and security of everyone on strata premises

Building managers ensure that incidences of petty theft, vandalism, or break-ins are avoided through stringent safety and security measures and tools. Whether it is by installing surveillance cameras or alarm systems, they ensure all residents feel protected while on their strata premises. 

Strata manager vs building manager: Who should you hire? 

Strata managers and building managers have different roles and responsibilities that they must fulfil. In most cases, a strata residence needs both professionals on their premises to execute strata and building management functions efficiently and effectively. 

Get in touch with a strata or building management professional today to provide a better communal living experience for your strata residents.