Making repairs and liaising with trades

With a good building manager, minor repairs can be dealt with on the spot. 

“If it doesn't require a specialist, we’ll take care of it as part of our normal duties,” Tony explains.

Things like cracked or lifted pavers, minor patching jobs on walls, or a leaking tap in the common area can be fixed promptly. No more wasting extra time and money on calling out trades—or, worse, the fault being left to sit there and deteriorate.

Where repairs do need a trade, building manager can take the load. They will:

• Organise quotes or deal directly with preferred suppliers
• Be there to give the tradesperson access so that owners don't have to take time off work
• Explain the job and assess whether the proposed repair is appropriate

Ensuring compliance

Building managers ensure that trades are complying with safe work practices. These might include:

• Compliant safety equipment
• Proper licensing
• Correctly accessing high-risk areas.

If the trade isn’t compliant and an accident occurs, liability insurance may not pay out, so the stakes are high.

Trades aren't the only ones who need to comply with legislation. There are several codes and standards that apply to developments, which can be hard for an owner's corporation to keep up with. Non-compliance could render your building insurance null and void.

The building managers check:

• The doors to the fire isolated stairwell are kept closed
• Fire extinguishers are tagged and operational
• Pathways are clear of debris
• Emergency phones work

Acting as a consultant

One way to think of a building or facility manager is as an interpreter. Does a ‘second fix’ sound like something to be scored down a dark alley? Not sure what’s flush and what’s flashing? Having a specialist on board can help.

A building manager can explain complex regulations and standards. When repairs are needed, they can also help you understand what’s required and why it's important.

The bottom line: what's in it for you

Your property is an asset, whether it pays you a rental income or you live in it while building equity for the future. By making sure that it is well maintained, you will:

• Help it increase in value so you can leverage the equity when you come to relocating or buying an investment property
• Attract tenants who care about a well-maintained property and be motivated to care for it themselves
• Enjoy living somewhere safe and attractive that you can be proud of
• Save on upkeep by attending to issues before they worsen and become expensive to fix.