Strata maintenance plans explained: Why they are now mandatory for developers (and how Centric Strata can help)

What Is a Strata Maintenance Plan – and Why It Matters

A strata maintenance plan is a legally required document that outlines all major assets of a building and the ongoing maintenance required to keep it compliant, safe, and financially sustainable.

From 2024 onward, developers in NSW must prepare and submit a detailed maintenance plan for any new strata scheme. This is part of the NSW Government’s reforms aimed at improving building quality and protecting owners from unexpected costs.

Why developers are now required to provide maintenance plans

Historically, many buildings were underfunded in the early years, leaving future owners to deal with costly repairs. These new regulations ensure that:

• Buildings have a clear plan for essential servicing and repairs

• Capital works funding is realistic and sufficient

• Owners are not hit with unexpected special levies

• Developers are held to higher accountability and building standardsA maintenance plan is not optional – it is a regulatory requirement designed to protect both owners and the legacy of the development.

What must be included in the maintenance plan

A compliant strata maintenance plan typically outlines:

✔ Major assets

• Roofs, windows, lifts, HVAC systems, fire safety equipment

• Plumbing, electrical, facade materials, waterproofing

  
  

✔ Maintenance schedule

• What work needs to be done

• How often it should be done

• Indicative lifecycle of each asset

  
  

✔ Cost forecasting

• Expected cost of maintenance and replacement

• Funding strategy through the capital works fund

  
  

✔ Risk and compliance obligations

• Essential fire safety measures

• Structural integrity requirements

• Legislative maintenance standards

What happens if developers don’t provide a maintenance plan

• The scheme may be deemed non-compliant

• Occupation certificates may be delayed

• Owners corporation may pursue recovery of costs

• It can negatively impact the building’s reputation and resale value

Benefits of a strategic maintenance plan

For developers:

• Improves sales appeal and trust with buyers

• Mitigates future defect claims

• Meets legal obligations without penalty

For owners and committees:

• Ensures predictable levies

• Protects building value

• Reduces emergency repairs and special levies

How Centric Strata supports developers and owners

Centric Strata works with developers during pre-registration to provide:

• Compliant maintenance plans tailored to the building

• Capital works fund forecasting over 10 years as required by NSW strata law

• Implementation guidance for owners corporations

• Systems and tools to manage maintenance proactively from day one

We don’t just hand over a document – we ensure the building is set up for long-term success with digital tools, supplier networks, and governance structures ready to go.

Final takeaway

Strata maintenance plans are now a legal requirement – but more importantly, they are a proactive roadmap to protecting property value, reducing risk, and ensuring the building operates smoothly for years to come.

If you are a developer or committee member and need assistance preparing or reviewing a maintenance plan, Centric Strata provides expert guidance to ensure full compliance and long-term financial stability.