I have only ever owned in small complexes, currently I own in 3 buildings – 16 lots, 12 lots and 14 lots. These all have budgets under $250k. Key to these have been an active and engaged EC/SC.
Many owners just assume paid Strata Managers take care of everything, which is true only to the extent to which they have been enabled by the OC.
When it comes to engaging external trades and services the industry is rife with over-quoting. This is where an active committee can make the biggest impact by scrutinising quotes, insisting on 3 quotes and providing a quick, coordinating response back to Strata Managers for action.
For larger complexes this model should work too. There are various methods they can use such as using WhatsApp groups etc.
There should be guidelines around critical services (ie: 7 or 14 day action period) or an ‘opt out’ decision mechanism (gas will be cut-off if XYZ service isnt’t undertaken by ABC, use decision buttons below) for SMs to use to ensure all residents are not disadvantaged by a lazy EC/SC.
At the end of the day try as you might sometimes human apathy just cannot be overcome.