As strata living becomes increasingly popular across Australia, more property owners are discovering the benefits of shared ownership and community-based property management. But with that rise has come a wave of misunderstandings about how strata schemes operate. And, more specifically, about what strata managers actually do.
These misconceptions can lead to confusion, frustration, and even poor decision-making when it comes to managing your property. At ASM Strata Management, we believe that clear information is the key to better communities. That’s why we’re setting the record straight on some of the most common myths about strata management services.
Myth 1: Strata Managers Control Everything
This is perhaps the most widespread misconception. Some believe strata managers have complete authority over how a property is run. In truth, the power rests with the owners.
The day-to-day decisions of a strata scheme are made by the Owners Corporation, often through an elected committee. Strata managers act under the direction of that committee. They’re there to support, and not to control. Their role is to carry out delegated tasks such as administrative support, financial reporting, maintenance coordination, and compliance assistance.
Reality: Strata managers are professional service providers. Not decision-makers.
Myth 2: Levies Go Straight to the Manager
It’s easy to assume that when you pay your strata levies, that money goes directly to the strata manager. But this isn’t the case.
Strata levies are deposited into a trust account held by the Owners Corporation and allocated to operating and capital works funds. The strata manager’s fees are then paid from this account, just like other service providers such as cleaners or gardeners.
Reality: Levies fund the OC; strata managers are paid like any other contractor.
Myth 3: Strata Fees Cover Everything
Strata fees are designed to cover regular, predictable expenses like maintenance of common areas, building insurance, and contributions to the sinking (capital works) fund. However, not everything is covered.
Unexpected repairs or upgrades, such as major plumbing issues or façade restoration, often require special levies. Owners should be aware of their building’s maintenance plan and the financial health of its sinking fund.
Reality: Strata fees cover a lot, but not everything. Be prepared for occasional extras.
Myth 4: Self-Managed Strata Saves Money
It might seem logical that doing it yourself saves on management fees. But self-managed strata schemes often struggle with time, expertise, and legal compliance, and that can cost far more in the long run.
Professional strata managers bring specialist knowledge in legislation, financial reporting, dispute resolution, and maintenance coordination. They can also access better rates for services and insurance, which offsets the cost of management fees over time.
Reality: Professional management often saves money through smarter planning and fewer costly errors.
Myth 5: Only Apartments Use Strata
While apartments are the most common form of strata title, strata schemes exist across a wide range of property types—including townhouses, duplexes, retirement villages, commercial buildings, retail and mixed-use, and even land subdivisions with shared driveways or infrastructure.
Reality: Strata is not just for apartment blocks. It’s a legal structure that applies wherever there is shared property.
Myth 6: By-Laws Can’t Be Changed
Strata by-laws (or building rules) often feel set in stone—but they aren’t. If the rules in your building are outdated, confusing, or unworkable, they can be updated through a formal vote at a general meeting.
It’s important to work with your strata manager and possibly seek legal advice to ensure the changes comply with legislation and are enforceable.
Reality: By-laws can evolve with your community’s needs.
Myth 7: Only Owners Can Attend Meetings
In some jurisdictions, such as New South Wales, tenants can play a role too. If more than 50% of the units in a scheme are rented, a tenant representative can be appointed to the committee. Tenants can also attend certain meetings and be consulted on matters that affect their living conditions.
Reality: Strata communities benefit when tenants and owners are engaged and represented.
Myth 8: You Must Be There in Person to Vote
Technology has transformed how we participate in strata governance. Owners can now vote via proxy, email, or online platforms depending on the rules in your state. This flexibility ensures that all owners (regardless of location) can have their say.
Reality: Your vote counts, even if you can’t attend in person.
Myth 9: Strata Communities Are Full of Conflict
Strata disputes make headlines—but they’re the exception, not the rule. Most strata communities function smoothly, with a shared commitment to respectful living.
In fact, professional strata management plays a critical role in preventing conflict by providing structure, clear communication, and access to mediation services when issues arise.
Reality: Most strata communities are cooperative, not combative.
Why Professional Strata Management Matters
Now that we’ve busted the myths, what does effective strata management really offer?
- Expert knowledge of legislation and compliance obligations
- Clear financial reporting and efficient levy collection
- Trusted coordination of repairs and maintenance
- Impartial dispute resolution and conflict prevention
- Support for owner and committee education
- Streamlined communication between stakeholders
Strata living works best when everyone understands their rights, responsibilities, and the role of professional support.
Need Guidance?
At ASM Strata Management, we provide professional, responsive, and transparent strata services that put your community first. If you’re facing confusion, challenges, or want to improve how your building is managed, we’re here to help.
Reach out to your local ASM branch to learn more about how we can support your Owners Corporation with reliable, myth-free strata management.