Challenge: A poorly managed and neglected building was deteriorating considerably, causing concern for owners. The existing strata management were becoming complacent, particularly with contractors.

Adding further woe to the owners, these contractors were being overpaid for inadequate services and the building’s condition was consistently left in a dishevelled state.

Solution: STM took over management of the property and performed a detailed analysis of the building and its surrounds, as well as its books and records. The committee received a report of the services requiring attention in priority order, and all owners were kept informed of the report status and progress.

STM reviewed contractors, negotiated new rates and engaged with the stakeholders to collectively restore the building and grounds back to its glory.

Outcome: Within just 12 months STM turned this neglected building into a well-maintained apartment block, increasing its property value and improving resident connections.

Challenge: This complex has four buildings, five OCs and over 270 units. Residents are social, relaxed but conscious of their impact on the environment. Collectively they wanted to be more sustainable, save money but be environmentally responsible.

The residents didn’t set formal goals, their overarching approach was to link energy savings to cost savings within 12 months. 

Solution: After meeting with the committees, STM set some sustainability goals and worked diligently with the committees to achieve these goals. Energy efficient lighting and upgraded exhaust fans were installed, pool heating replaced, and food scrap and textile recycling introduced.

Outcome: This client won the City of Sydney’s 2021 Smart Green Apartment award whilst Senior Community Manager/Regional Manager won the prestigious Strata Manager of the Year Award.

Within 12 months $40,000 was saved in electricity expenses, as well as savings approaching 300 tonnes of greenhouse gases/year. The residents were thrilled and will continue this green journey.

Challenge: This owners corporation wanted to make a conscious commitment to reduce the impact of the property on the environment by reducing water and energy consumption. They set an ambitious target to reduce energy by 10% and water use by 25% by 2020.

Solution: The residents agreed to implement the following initiatives: introduction of Sydney Water’s WaterFix project to reduce water consumption, installation of VSDs and a CO monitoring system throughout the car park, new and upgraded energy efficient spa and pool heaters as well as LED lighting installed to reduce energy consumption.

Outcome: Not only were these impressive targets achieved, but the residents absolutely smashed them well within their timeframe and continue to make considerable sustainability savings. Water usage is now 50% lower and energy savings of $1,200 per quarter, thanks to the 100% participation rate from residents.

Residents are extremely proactive with recycling, with an additional collection day arranged to keep up with the demand.

Challenge: An extremely large development was proposed to be built between two properties, one of which was an apartment complex.

The proposed development application received an objection from Council and the developer commenced proceedings at the Land and Environment Court. If the applicant was successful, the proposed development would have caused numerous issues for the adjoining properties.

Solution: After detailed consultations with the committee, STM contacted the neighbouring property regarding options moving forward, and they readily agreed to join forces with the apartment community to contest the application, appointing STM as the lead delegate. Collaboratively we assisted Council by providing detailed submissions against the development.

Outcome: STM assisted with all correspondence between Council, their legal representatives, the appointed experts, owners for both buildings and the Land and Environment Court. The objection was successful, and the court ruled in favour of the decision made by Council.