How to Find a Building Manager: Expert Tips
A practical guide to choosing the right building manager, including the questions to ask and the qualifications that truly matter.
A good building manager keeps a property running smoothly, protects its value and gives owners and residents peace of mind. In contrast, a poor one can lead to unresolved maintenance, frustrated tenants and rising costs. So if you are responsible for a strata complex, apartment building or commercial property, knowing how to find a building manager who is genuinely up to the job is an important skill.
This guide walks through what to look for, the right questions to ask and the qualifications that set a capable building manager apart.
What Does a Building Manager Do?
Before you start your search, it helps to be clear on the role. A building manager oversees the day-to-day operation and upkeep of a building or complex. This is different from a property manager, who typically handles the tenancy side of an individual rental. In short, a building manager focuses on the physical asset and its shared spaces.
Typical responsibilities include coordinating repairs and maintenance, managing contractors and cleaners, overseeing safety and compliance, maintaining common areas, and acting as the main point of contact for residents and the owners’ corporation. Because the role is so varied, the right person needs a broad mix of practical, organisational and people skills.
Qualifications and Experience to Look For
While requirements vary depending on the type and size of the property, there are several credentials and qualities worth prioritising. As you assess candidates, keep the following in mind.
Relevant Experience
Look for a proven track record managing buildings similar to yours. Experience with comparable size, type and complexity is often more telling than qualifications alone.
Technical Knowledge
A solid understanding of building systems, maintenance, safety standards and relevant regulations is essential. This helps prevent small issues from becoming costly problems.
Communication Skills
A building manager deals with residents, contractors and owners daily. Clear, calm and professional communication is what keeps everyone informed and issues resolved.
Formal credentials can also add confidence. Depending on the role, these might include a certificate or diploma in property or facilities management, relevant licences, current insurances and appropriate safety training. Always ask to see evidence of any qualifications or accreditations a candidate claims to hold.
Key Questions to Ask a Potential Building Manager
When learning how to find a building manager, interviewing candidates thoroughly is the best way to find the right fit. So the following questions help you understand how a building manager works and whether they suit your property.
✓ What experience do you have with properties like mine?
✓ How do you handle maintenance requests and urgent repairs after hours?
✓ How do you communicate with residents and owners, and how often?
✓ What is your process for selecting and managing contractors?
✓ How do you stay on top of safety and compliance obligations?
✓ Can you provide references from other buildings you manage?
Pay attention not just to the answers, but to how the candidate responds. A great building manager will be transparent, organised and genuinely interested in understanding your property’s needs. Always follow up on references, as speaking to current clients gives you an honest picture of how someone performs.
Where to Start Your Search
Once you know what you are looking for, the next step is finding suitable candidates. There are a few reliable places to begin. Established property and facilities management agencies are often the easiest starting point, since they can provide vetted, experienced staff. Alternatively, industry associations and professional networks can point you towards qualified individuals.
Personal recommendations are also valuable. If you know other owners or committee members, ask who they use and whether they would recommend them. Because a trusted referral comes with a track record you can verify, it often carries more weight than an advertisement.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Just as important as knowing what to look for is recognising what to avoid. A few warning signs should give you pause during the selection process.
Vague answers. If a candidate cannot clearly explain their process for maintenance, communication or contractors, that lack of clarity often carries into the role.
No references. A reluctance to provide references from other buildings is a genuine concern worth taking seriously.
Poor responsiveness. If someone is slow to respond during the hiring process, they may be just as slow once they are managing your property.
Getting Expert Support
Finding the right person takes time, but the effort pays off in a well-run property and happier residents. However, if you would prefer expert guidance, working with an experienced agency can take the pressure off and ensure your property is in capable hands.
At Bosco Realty, we understand what it takes to manage property well. As a boutique, family-owned agency, we bring local knowledge and a genuinely personalised approach to everything we do. To learn more about how we can help, explore our property management Adelaide services and speak with our team about your property’s needs.
Need Help Managing Your Property?
Talk to the Bosco Realty team for expert, local advice on managing your property and finding the right people to look after it.