In multi-storey residential and mixed-use buildings, lifts are among the most important—and expensive—assets that an Owners Corporation is responsible for maintaining. A single lift breakdown can disrupt daily life, trigger costly repairs, and even raise safety concerns. That’s why at Metro Strata, our managers continuously build their technical understanding of lift systems and maintenance requirements, ensuring our clients’ buildings operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with NSW legislation.

The Importance of Lift Maintenance in Strata Buildings

In strata schemes, lift systems are not just a convenience—they’re a shared responsibility. Regular maintenance ensures passenger safety, prevents costly breakdowns, and extends the life of the equipment. More importantly, it helps the Owners Corporation meet its legal obligations under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and relevant building safety standards.

Lift servicing typically involves scheduled inspections, lubrication of mechanical components, safety system testing, and performance checks. Comprehensive maintenance programs also include periodic modernisation to meet evolving safety and accessibility codes. These programs reduce the likelihood of emergency callouts and keep operational costs predictable across the building’s long-term financial plan.

Why Technical Knowledge Matters for Strata Managers

While licensed lift contractors are responsible for the physical maintenance of the equipment, Strata Managers play a crucial role in oversight, budgeting, and communication. Having a practical understanding of how lifts operate allows managers to interpret reports accurately, question irregularities, and advocate for owners’ best interests.

At Metro Strata, our managers undertake ongoing professional development to strengthen their knowledge of mechanical systems like lifts, fire panels, and HVAC operations. This technical awareness allows our team to:

• Ensure lift contracts include essential services and fair terms.
• Plan for both short-term servicing and long-term replacement costs.
• Evaluate maintenance proposals based on building age, usage, and manufacturer specifications.
• Communicate clearly with committees and residents about servicing schedules, downtime, and safety requirements.

Simply put, a well-informed Strata Manager bridges the gap between the technical complexity of lift systems and the practical needs of the Owners Corporation.

Common Challenges with Lift Maintenance

Lift systems can represent up to 20–30% of a building’s annual maintenance budget, particularly in high-rise developments. Misunderstanding the scope of a maintenance contract or delaying necessary works can have serious financial and safety implications.

Common challenges that Owners Corporations face include:

• Underestimating costs: Budgeting too little for annual servicing, callouts, or component replacement.
• Outdated equipment: Failing to plan for lift modernisation every 15–25 years, as recommended by most manufacturers.
• Limited oversight: Relying on reports without understanding technical terms or indicators of performance issues.
• Safety compliance: Not meeting obligations for periodic inspections under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Australian Standards (AS 1735).

With informed management, these issues can be mitigated through preventative planning and clear communication between the Strata Committee, contractors, and residents.

How Metro Strata Strengthens Oversight and Accountability

To maintain the highest standard of safety and service delivery, Metro Strata implements a structured approach to lift management that includes:

• Regular contract reviews: We assess all maintenance contracts for clarity, fairness, and compliance with industry standards.
• Budget forecasting: Lift maintenance and upgrade costs are integrated into each scheme’s capital works plan to avoid surprise levies.
• Performance tracking: We maintain records of service reports, callouts, and inspections to identify patterns and address recurring issues early.
• Preventative planning: Where appropriate, we recommend modernisation programs to improve safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility.

By combining technical knowledge with proactive financial management, our strata managers ensure that each building’s lift system remains reliable, compliant, and cost-efficient throughout its life cycle.

Preventative vs. Reactive Maintenance

Many lift issues can be prevented through early detection and regular servicing. Preventative maintenance involves scheduled inspections and minor adjustments before faults occur. Reactive maintenance, on the other hand, is responding to breakdowns after the fact — often at higher cost and inconvenience to residents.

Preventative lift management offers clear benefits:

• Reduced emergency callout fees and downtime.
• Improved reliability and resident satisfaction.
• Compliance with insurance and safety regulations.
• Extended lifespan of major lift components.

Metro Strata advises all Owners Corporations to prioritise preventative over reactive servicing — not only to safeguard residents but to protect the long-term financial stability of the scheme.

Final Word

Lift systems are among the most complex and costly pieces of infrastructure in any strata building, and their proper management is vital for safety, comfort, and asset preservation. For Owners Corporations, understanding how these systems are maintained—and ensuring your Strata Manager has the expertise to oversee them—makes all the difference.

At Metro Strata, we combine legislative knowledge with practical, hands-on understanding of building systems. This holistic approach allows us to manage your property with confidence and precision, ensuring that every component, from lifts to lighting, performs safely and efficiently.