Can our building manager or caretaker change the name of our entire complex without owners input nor acknowledgement? – Rose, NSW

Even if they have management rights, can our building manager or caretaker change the name of our entire complex without owners input nor acknowledgement?

– Rose, NSW

 

Your building manager cannot act against the wishes or without the approval of the owners corporations. Also, your building manager is not authorised to vote in general meetings, so they cannot influence your property’s decision making process.

According to the law, a building manager or caretaker can be hired by the owners corporation to only help with the day-to-day running of the building. They are required to cover only those responsibilities as specified within their contract. These responsibilities generally include:

• managing common property, taking care of security and cleaning activities
• coordinating with tradespersons such as plumbers, electricians, repairmen, etc. to oversee maintenance and repair of common property
• helping the committee address complaints from residents and ensuring by-laws and regulations are followed
• overseeing the activities of non-residents and guests while in the strata property

You may want to check the building manager’s contract to get clarity on their roles and responsibilities pertaining to your strata property – your owners corporation should retain a copy of the building manager’s contract at all times.

If your building manager is violating the contact terms of agreement or going against the wishes of the owners corporation, you may seek the help of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal to get the agreement terminated.

You building manager may acts as an on-site residential property manager only if they’re licensed under the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2002. Read more on the NSW Fair Trading website.