Given that every strata development has a different combination of by-laws, facilities and local council laws, wouldn’t it be valuable, asks one reader, for us to have our own websites?
The answer is a resounding “yes” and, in fact, many larger buildings already have them.
Some are very basic with a few arty pictures to entice potential purchasers and renters. Others are a vital part of daily strata life with information and even pages on which you can book facilities like tennis courts and saunas.
So what should a strata block’s website have for it to be truly effective? Firstly, you’d want contact details for all the key people, including the building managers, strata manger, security, chairman and secretary.
You would also want your by-laws and Executive Committee minutes to be available (to approved subscribers), along with a Frequently Asked Questions page. The answers to “Who can park in visitor parking?” or “What if I break the by-laws?”, for instance, might head off many problems.
You could provide essential forms – proxies, pet requests, removal bookings – for download and for feedback, add in a residents’ forum and a simple, fun way to vote online on minor issues.
You’d also want a list of emergency numbers – plumbers, electricians, locksmiths – and services like local restaurants and takeaway outlets .
So where do you start? Some strata managers offer a website as part of their service (OK until you want to have an online discussion about getting rid of them).
A company called Westlogic offers three levels of strata-specific website service, starting from $695 set-up fee and $59.95 a month. You can get a free trial from their website westlogic.com.au.
You can get a cheaper, off-the peg website adapted to your needs. Webcare Solutions (webcare.com.au) who designed this self-managed Flat Chat website, provide a basic information website for $595 with prices rising as you add more features.
Possibly the cheapest way is to get someone on the EC to design and maintain your website for no more than the cost of the web address and online server. That’s great until they get bored, busy or move out.
If you know of or offer a reliable website service for strata blocks, tell me and I’ll list it here.