Question: Our strata committee defers general maintenance and cleaning to a minimum. Are there best practice guidelines around cleaning frequency based on the size of the strata complex?
Our strata committee continues to defer general maintenance around the property and keep garden maintenance, general cleaning (pressure cleaning the paths, etc) and gutter cleaning to a minimum. Their view is that the paths should be cleaned ‘when required’.
Are you aware of any best practice guidelines or documents around cleaning frequency based on the size of the strata complex? For example, a strata site of 50 units should clean internal areas bi-monthly, etc. We’ve contacted NSW government departments, but they could not assist us.
Answer: No mandated guidelines specify cleaning frequencies based on the size of a strata complex.
Unfortunately, there are no mandated guidelines that specify cleaning frequencies based on the size of a strata complex. Cleaning and maintenance schedules often depend on factors such as the property’s specific needs, foot traffic, conditions, and the expectations of the owners or residents. The needs must be addressed within the contractual agreement.
That said, many strata properties adopt cleaning and maintenance schedules as part of their strata management plan or through best practices within the industry. As a general reference, here are some common practices for medium to large strata complexes:
- Internal common areas (e.g., hallways, foyers): Clean weekly or twice a week, sometimes even three times a week, depending on foot traffic and the size of the building.
- External paths and walkways: Pressure cleaning at least quarterly or ‘as needed’ in areas prone to dirt or grime buildup. Safety is a significant concern if the surface is slippery.
- Gardens and landscaping: Weekly to fortnightly maintenance, depending on the season.
- Gutter cleaning: At least twice a year, or more frequently if surrounded by trees.
- Bin areas and waste management: Cleaned and sanitised weekly or twice a week.
If your strata committee is hesitant, they might consider engaging a building manager. A building manager can oversee contractors directly, assist with negotiations, and increase productivity, leading to better value for money. For a complex of 50 lots, the cost of a building manager could average as little as $70 per month per lot, with the potential return on investment significantly outweighing the expense.
Additionally, the committee could conduct a survey or poll of the residents to gauge expectations regarding cleaning and maintenance. This can demonstrate broader community support for more frequent upkeep.
James Delany Alliance Management Services E: james@alliancemanagementservices.com.au P: 02 7201 0418
This post appears in the March 2025 edition of The NSW Strata Magazine.