On 19 June 2025, LookUpStrata hosted a crucial webinar focused on empowering strata owners and committee members to make confident, informed decisions when it comes to strata manager contract renewals. With insights from Megan Parkins of Tender Advisory, the session highlighted owners’ rights, unpacked common renewal pitfalls, and emphasised the importance of transparency, diligence and choice.
NSW: Red Flags for Committees at Strata Manager Contract Renewals
Conversations like these are difficult but vital not just for individual schemes but for the health of the whole strata industry. The intent of the webinar was to support and uplift the strata sector by encouraging best practice when it comes to strata manager contract renewals. The vast majority of very hard working strata managers act ethically and professionally. This webinar aimed to empower owners to recognise good service while identifying where improvements could be made, for the benefit of everyone involved.
Whether you were able to join us live or plan to watch the replay, this recap offers a detailed overview of what was covered — along with key takeaways to help guide your owners corporation’s decision-making process at contract renewal time.
Why This Topic Matters
Strata management plays a central role in the health of any owners corporation. Yet when contract renewals roll around, some committees face pressure to re-sign quickly — often without understanding the full implications. This webinar was designed to shine a light on:
- Some incidences of unethical practices Tender Advisory has discovered during the strata manager contract renewal process
- The genuine power owners have when selecting or renewing a strata manager
- Practical steps committees can take to ensure the best outcome for their building
Key Themes During Strata Manager Contract Renewals Discussed During the Webinar
You Have the Power to Choose
The cornerstone of the discussion was a reminder that owners corporations have the fundamental right to choose who they work with. Contract renewal isn’t automatic, and no committee should feel cornered into re-signing without full clarity.
Transparency Is Non-Negotiable
Megan Parkins emphasised the importance of transparency in all dealings with your strata manager. During strata manager contract renewals, ethical managers welcome open processes, provide timely documentation, and support informed decisions.
Beware of Pressure Tactics
Some strata managers apply subtle or overt pressure to fast-track renewals — such as presenting contracts late, warning of administrative chaos if a renewal isn’t signed urgently, or suggesting there are no other viable options. These practices were discussed as red flags.
Understand the Strata Management Agency Agreement Contract Terms
The webinar encouraged attendees to read and question contract terms carefully, particularly around:
- Duration and rollover clauses
- Termination rights
- Fee structures
- Scope of service
Consider Going to Tender at Management Renewal Time
Engaging in a transparent tender process can be a valuable way to assess the market and ensure the current manager is still the best fit. Megan shared insights on how tenders can restore owner confidence and lead to improved service and pricing.
Takeaways for Your Strata Manager Contract Renewals
- Don’t assume contract renewal is automatic — it requires proper scrutiny.
- Ask questions early and seek documentation ahead of your AGM.
- Don’t sign anything under pressure or without committee discussion.
- Ethical strata managers will support transparency and owner decision-making.
- Consider whether a tender process can give your scheme confidence, choice, and better outcomes.
Actionable Items for Owners and Committees
- Review your current contract: Check for renewal dates, rollover clauses, and termination terms.
- Start early: Begin discussions 3–6 months before the contract ends.
- Engage the whole committee: Ensure everyone understands their options.
- Share the knowledge: Distribute this article and webinar link to your fellow lot owners and committee members.
Final Thoughts
The message from this webinar was clear: strata owners deserve transparency, choice, and respect during every stage of their strata journey. Strata manager contract renewals should never be rushed or clouded in confusion. By staying informed, asking questions, and pushing for ethical practices, owners can drive positive change in the sector.
Presentation slides
Download the slide pack from the presentation here: Questionable Strata Manager Retention Strategies
Presenter
Megan Parkins
Tender Advisory
E: [email protected]
P: 0435 893 670
This post appears in Strata News #749.
Have a question or something to add to the article? Leave a comment below.
Read next:
- NSW: Strata owners, don’t be misled by these questionable manager retention strategies
- NSW: Benefits of conducting a formal tender for strata management
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