Everything Body Corporate
Mar 15, 20202 min
Updated: May 13, 2020
We’ll share with you five important tips to keep in mind when deciding which Body Corporate Manager is best for you.
Do your homework
Body corporate management is sadly an industry that is unregulated. Anyone, without any prior experience or pre-requisite qualifications, can set up a business offering body corporate management services to the public. Your body corporate manager must carry a significant level of responsibility and a duty of care to the body corporate, so it pays to do your homework.
1. Tender Out
Always seek comparable tenders. Compare; services, practical experience, contractual terms and pricing.
2. Interview
Meet with the prospective new managers. Ask about their management style, knowledge, practical experience and consider how they will be a good fit for you.
3. Reference Check
Ask for several references and research the company. Bear in mind no matter how good the Account Manager assigned to look after your property may be, the body corporate is formally contracted to the management company. You need to be sure that you continue to be happy with the service and relationship should the Account Manager change (something to consider/negotiate within the contract).
4. Understand the Contractual Terms
Ensure your committee understands the terms of the proposed contract. This sets up the relationship between the body corporate and the Manager and will be the first point of reference when clarity is needed.
Some important clauses to consider;
Initial length of term, renewal & notice prior to renewal
Fee payments and increases
Services included / services attracting additional fees
Matters that constitute a breach of contract
Ending the contract (termination)
5. Consider Price Last
The adage of “you get what you pay for” can often ring true. Service contracts differ considerably, and it pays to look closely at what services are included in the body corporate administration fee, but more importantly, what is not included - this is where bodies corporate often get caught off guard.
The body corporate, its Chairperson and its committee will benefit greatly from the assistance of a skilled Manager with whom they can establish a good working relationship. The quality and professionalism of Body Corporate Managers can vary greatly, so it pays to spend a little time researching your options before committing to a contract.
If you are looking for a new manager or are curious to find out more - contact us at Everything Body Corporate for a no obligation chat.