Building Manager
A Building Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and maintenance of commercial, residential, or mixed-use buildings. Key duties include managing building services, such as cleaning, security, and maintenance, conducting regular inspections, ensuring compliance with safety and building regulations, and coordinating repairs or upgrades with contractors. The Building Manager is also the main point of contact for tenants or residents, addressing their concerns and managing leaseholder relationships.
Strong organisational skills, technical knowledge of building systems, and the ability to handle multiple responsibilities are essential for this role. Experience in facilities management or property maintenance is highly desirable, along with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
The daily tasks of a Building Manager involve overseeing the operation, maintenance, and safety of residential or commercial buildings. This role is crucial in strata-managed properties, apartment complexes, or commercial facilities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of typical daily responsibilities:
1. Site Inspections & Maintenance Oversight
- Conduct daily walk-throughs of common areas, plant rooms, parking, and service areas
- Identify and log any maintenance issues (e.g. lighting, plumbing, HVAC, security systems)
- Coordinate and supervise contractors (e.g. cleaners, electricians, lift technicians)
2. Resident & Tenant Support
- Respond to enquiries, complaints, or service requests from residents or tenants
- Liaise with the strata manager or building owner about resident concerns
- Issue building notices or updates (e.g. water outages, fire drills)
3. Compliance & Safety Checks
- Ensure the building complies with NSW safety regulations, including:
- Fire safety systems (alarms, extinguishers, emergency lighting)
- WHS (Work Health & Safety) standards
- Access control and CCTV
- Check logs for fire panels, lift operations, and other essential services
4. Contractor & Vendor Coordination
- Schedule routine and urgent works (e.g. cleaning, pest control, landscaping)
- Supervise on-site contractors and verify completion of work
- Maintain a contractor register and insurance certificates (e.g. public liability)
5. Record-Keeping & Reporting
- Update the building management log or maintenance system (CMMS or software)
- Record incidents, repairs, and inspections
- Submit daily or weekly reports to the strata manager or owner’s corporation
6. Security & Access Control
- Monitor security systems, CCTV, and visitor logs
- Manage access cards, fobs, and key distribution
- Address unauthorised access or incidents
7. Waste & Cleanliness Management
- Ensure bins are collected and waste areas are clean and compliant
- Monitor cleaning staff performance and schedules
- Organise deep cleaning or pressure washing when necessary
8. Fire & Emergency System Monitoring
- Confirm all systems are operational (e.g. fire doors, sprinklers, alarm panels)
- Conduct or schedule monthly and annual fire drills (as required by law)
- Liaise with fire safety contractors for inspections and certifications
9. Communication with Stakeholders
- Report building issues or resident updates to:
- Strata managers
- Facility managers
- Owners’ corporations
- Attend meetings when required (e.g. strata committee meetings)
Optional (Depending on Property Type):
- Manage short-term lettings or move-in/out logistics
- Oversee amenities (pools, gyms, rooftop areas)
- Assist with by-law enforcement
Summary:
The Building Manager in NSW is the on-the-ground operations leader, ensuring the building is safe, compliant, well-maintained, and running smoothly. The role requires strong communication, organisation, and knowledge of strata law, building systems, and contractor management.