The Answer
$800–$8,000+/year in levies
Strata levies cover building insurance, common area maintenance, and a sinking fund for major repairs. Amount varies hugely by building.
What Strata Levies Cover
| Admin Fund (quarterly) | Capital Works / Sinking Fund |
|---|---|
| Building insurance | Major repairs (roof, plumbing, lifts) |
| Common area cleaning and gardening | Painting and exterior maintenance |
| Strata manager fees | Building upgrades |
| Utilities for common areas | Waterproofing and structural work |
Typical Levy Costs
| Property Type | Typical Annual Levies |
|---|---|
| Small block (4–8 units, no facilities) | $800–$2,500 |
| Medium block (20–50 units, basic facilities) | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Large complex (pool, gym, concierge) | $5,000–$12,000+ |
Before You Buy — Check the Strata Report
A strata report ($200–$400) reveals the financial health and history of the building. Look for:
- Sinking fund balance: Is there enough saved for major repairs? A low sinking fund means a future special levy (one-off payment — can be $5,000–$50,000+)
- Outstanding special levies: Are there any upcoming?
- Defects or disputes: Building defect claims, ongoing legal action
- Meeting minutes: What issues have been raised?
- By-laws: Pet restrictions, renovation rules, short-term letting rules
Frequently Asked Questions
What are strata levies?
Regular payments covering building insurance, common area maintenance, and a savings fund for major repairs. Paid quarterly. Typically $800–$8,000+/year depending on the building.
What's a special levy?
A one-off payment when the building needs expensive repairs and the sinking fund doesn't have enough. Can be $5,000–$50,000+ per owner. Always check the strata report before buying.
What Changed
Apr 2026
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