Every building is unique and comes with its own set of challenges. We know this because we approach each building as such and provide a complete, custom strata management solution with each appraisal. Despite this, there are still those common problems that we see regularly faced by owners corporations and body corporates.
Behaviour of Residents and Visitors
One of the most frequent complaints in strata-managed buildings revolves around the behaviour of owners, tenants, or their guests. This can include anything from illegal activities to nuisances and safety hazards that impact other residents. Addressing disruptive behaviour promptly is essential to maintain a harmonious living environment.
Communal spaces
Shared facilities like function rooms, BBQ areas, spas, and pools often become points of contention. Disputes can arise over cleanliness, improper use, or monopolisation of these spaces by certain residents. Ensuring clear guidelines and booking systems can help alleviate these issues.
Facilities Manager
The building or facilities manager, often a live-in role, is the go-to person for daily operations and resident concerns. They handle everything from minor maintenance to resident grievances, making them the first point of contact for issues that arise. A capable facilities manager is crucial for smooth building operations.
Insufficient Sinking Funds
A common financial challenge for owners corporations is the lack of sufficient sinking funds. These funds are essential for long-term maintenance and unexpected repairs. Shortfalls often lead to special levies on lot owners, which can cause financial strain and dissatisfaction, especially if not anticipated.
Maintenance Issues
Upkeep and maintenance are frequent sources of complaints. Whether it’s the cost of repairs, disruption from ongoing works, or delays in addressing issues, maintenance can be a headache. For example, a closed parking garage or a malfunctioning elevator can significantly impact residents’ day-to-day lives. Additionally, lot owners may need permission to make alterations that affect common property, which can lead to disputes.
Noise
Noise complaints are among the most common issues in apartment living. Whether it’s loud music, arguments, children playing, or pets, these sounds can quickly become disruptive. Other sources of noise include renovations, building repairs, or even external factors like traffic and construction works. Establishing clear noise guidelines is vital to minimize conflicts.
Parking
Parking is a perennial issue, especially in buildings with limited spaces. Common complaints include misuse of visitor parking, residents occupying designated visitor spots, and disputes over time limits. Implementing clear parking rules and monitoring systems can help manage these challenges effectively.
Partying
While everyone is entitled to enjoy their space, loud parties that extend into the early hours can disturb the peace, particularly in apartment buildings. This issue is exacerbated by short-term rentals like Airbnb, where guests may not adhere to building rules. Establishing quiet hours and clear penalties for violations can help mitigate this problem.
Renovations
Renovating to personalise a space is common, but it often requires approval from the owners corporation. There are also restrictions on when noisy works can be conducted. With more residents working from home, renovation noise has become an even bigger concern. Clear communication and scheduling can reduce disruptions.
Smoking
As more buildings adopt no-smoking policies in communal areas, complaints have shifted to smoking on balconies. This can affect neighbours, particularly those living above or nearby. Establishing building-wide no-smoking zones or designated smoking areas can help address these concerns.
Finding Solutions with the Right Strata Management
Fortunately, many of these common issues can be easily resolved with the right strata management and clear complaints procedures in place. At Amity Strata Management, we pride ourselves on proactive problem-solving and personalised service.
Get in touch today for a free appraisal and discover the Amity Strata Management difference. Fill out the form below, and let us create a tailored strata management solution for your building.
