Re: OH&S and Repairs & Maint to Common Areas

@gusmich said:
Hi Dudley,

Being involved in several schemes over the past 20 years there is no problems with you arranging your own quotes and tradespeople. The strata manager usually checks the contractor’s details like licences and insurances I get them to write it all on the quote.

Unlike Rob T, I usually find that most Strata contractors are around 30 -50% more expensive and usually do low quality work. I was a builder so I have some knowledge.

Also strata contractors tend to ignore you once they have the job preferring to deal with the SM as they want to get in and out as quickly as possible, do the least amount of work possible and charge you as much as possible for the job.

Some advice for you before you gets quotes;

Have a very good and accurate job specification/requirement ready in writing. THIS WILL SAVE YOUR BACON IF PROBLEMS ARISE.

Check with an estimator how much you should be paying for the work.

For example recently i had a quote from the strata roofer to re-point our ridge capping. The quote was around $4000 . The going rate for re-pointing is around $25 l/m. I got the job done for $1600 and the work is exceptional.

Lastly and the most important thing to consider;

Never expect any thanks from other owners even if you save them heaps and get better work done.

Hi Gusmich,

Many thanks for your reply.

Our strata manager has proved that he is most reluctant to even discuss any contractor other than those on his “list”. However, I can live with this and your advice is most welcome.

Your observations and comments reflect my experiences with our strata contractors as well.I will make sure that I confirm any contractors licenses and insurance as well as having a clearly written scope of works.

Last but not least your final comment is so TRUE!