Robinson Strata Management

Unhelpful, abrupt, dismissive and non-transparent in strata management – We wrote to our strata manager, [Name Removed] to ask our dog owners neigbours in the flats below keep the premises clean of dog poo. After all, this is what dog owners do when in public. The dog poo, uncollected for days at times, stinks in the garden below attracting flies. We have to keep our windows shut in this hot weather rather than… Read more

contend with the unhealthy issue of the disease carrying flies. In response, [Name Removed] asked us to take a photo or recording of the neighbour's dog in the act of pooing. Perhaps we'd better pick it up and send it as evidence to the court. Yet, had she paid a visit, she could have seen the turds in the garden and the dog hair floating around in the entrance hall. We didn't ask the residents be evicted or fined, we just asked the strata manager to talk or write to them i.e. do her duty, which is inform and mediate to enforce the strata by-laws, duty displayed on Robinsons' own site until their affiliation to Pica Group. Later, [Name Removed] argued then that we do not have the votes of the committee. But why and how would a committee, of which more than half of its members are living elsewhere now and the rest live at the other end of the block, decide on such a matter for us or another resident? Committees have no such powers or wish to be involved in such matters between close neighbours. Too often though [Name Removed] defers her authority to the committee, that is, when she is responding at all, even if it is a matter for the strata manager. To avoid acting outside the by-laws, she in fact is inviting the committee to circumvent the by-laws as such. Anyway, [Name Removed] has forbidden us until now any direct contact with the committee, in other words our own neighbours, asking us antagonistically to always go through her, as if the committee iss dwelling in a castle where she iss the gatekeeper and we, as mere owners, have to be kept at a distance. Anyway, it looks to us that, rather than dealing with the problems, [Name Removed] is discouraging us to raise issues by dismissing them brusquely, demanding from start such proof as photos of dogs' pooing, hair, dirt... recordings at dawn, log books with multiple occurences and times... as if, in order to sleep at night in our home we have to first play detectives and spy on our neighbours. We have other reasons of dissatisfaction too. The windows at our back entrance have not been washed in a long time. The garden in our front has not been landscaped like the rest and loose items still lay abandoned on the property since we last came here. Also, she has recently tried to pass to us the bill for a service that she, as the strata manager called, assuming wrongly it came for free. Our view is that the strata manager is not willing or transparent in actions. [Name Removed] is abrupt, dismissive and often unhelpful. She has defered without good reason the responsability of strata management to the committee as if the committee decisions are above the strata by-laws. Since becoming a member of the committe we asked her to send us a copy of our strata by-laws she has given to everyone else and give us access to the financial transactions of the association we are entitled to as new members of the committee. [Name Removed] has failed to do that so far.

April 17th 2020 Update: Robinsons' strata shows an adverse, unsympathetic attitude towards owners' issues

We just raised with [name removed], our Robinsons strata manager, the issue of a loud whooshing noise often coming till late through the bedroom wall and open windows from the bathroom exhaust fan in the unit 2 below us. The noise affects our rest and focus on work. The fan, which has most likely been rather recently over-dimensioned, is noisy and always activated with the lights. Yet, after failing to respond to our first emails, [name removed] dismissed our issue without recourse by alleging that “from our own description” it looked to her like the noise was a normal household sound. She did not even bother to send an electrician to independently check the noise as an honest assessment requires and as she arranged previously when our neighbour complained. But we soon realised that [name removed] was aware of the exhaust fan problem from a previous complaint mentioned in a chain of emails sent by her that proves that the exhaust fan vibration issue was known and discussed time ago. Yet [name removed] found that the sound was “normal” enough for us to live with. To check the facts though, I tried to search the strata plan records, minutes... which as a recent member of the committee now, I am entitled to access. Yet, to my surprise, I could not access the records I could read just hoursago, fact checked with the Community Hub who deferred the access control responsibility to [name removed].

All in all, we believe that [name removed] .1. Failed to perform her duty according to the strata by-laws plan no. 47788 about noise condemning us single handedly to live with the noise from now on. .2. Revoked without notice my rightful access as a member of the committee to the strata records

In addition the above proves [name removed] .- harsh and sometimes impulsive replies, her preferential treatment for a few and the double standards she employs (one for us and a different one for the neighbour in case) .- adverse, unsympathetic and deceptive attitude towards some owners like us for reasons we don’t even want to evoke .- authoritarian, resentful and dismissive behaviour, like that of the lord of a manor, towards the very owners who employ her services With her twisting the facts (e.g. in our complaint) to suit her aims and her lack of transparency, she brings about unnecessary tension, suspicions and unhappiness in our association. We also documented the unfortunate experience we had since the beginning with her in an earlier review on the Product Review site which unfortunately went unacknowledged.

We suggest as such that, in light of all the above, [name removed] performance is assessed and actions are taken to prevent this happening again in the interest of all parties. We would also like .- a balanced resolution on the noise from the unit below . - a restoration of the owners’ rights so that they are given at least access to the strata financial transactions .- a polite and helpful attitude towards all owners and residents

Are you looking for a new strata manager? – In times when I am surrounded by friends dissatisfied by strata management, I am even more grateful for Charles. Charles calls it as he sees it. He is honest and highly informed. And if there is ever anything of which he is unsure, he declares his uncertainty and immediately seeks to find answers. His wide experience is evident in the way he is… Read more

able to explain and advise on a plethora of different issues.

Yet, he is down to earth, kind and unassuming. And he has an ability to lighten a weighty issue or agenda with a keen sense of humour ... so important.

Charles’ communication is second to none. Even when his agenda is full to overflowing, Charles has ‘time’ for you! And when he promises to respond, he does.

His ability to chair AGMs is outstanding. He moves through a long agenda skilfully, ensuring everyone is on board in their understanding before progressing. Yet, he manages this without making a meeting seem agonisingly protracted. Charles also negotiates contentious issues with expertise.

For anyone needing a reliable, responsible strata manager, you couldn’t find better than Charles!

14 Ronald Avenue Freshwater Review – On behalf of the Executive Committee SP 7537, we have pleasure in recording the long, successful relationship that our Strata Plan has had with Robinson Strata Management. For many years our Strata Manager at Robinsons has been Angela Carruthers. Angela has always looked after our Strata Plan's interests in a pleasant, professional, efficient and… Read more

cost effective way.

There have been a number of specific matters, apart from the excellent day-to-day strata management, in which Angela has been a major factor in our achievement of successful outcomes. Angela is even-handed in her dealings with all the individual owners of the Strata Plan and has continued her personal development as a Real Estate professional in the strata management area.

Our Strata Plan has been managed by Robinsons for over 20 years and the Executive Committee is pleased to continue that relationship and to recommend Angela Carruthers and the support of Robinsons Strata Management.

Ben Pattinson – Ben has been our strata manager for years now, he does a great job. When we ask him to get quotes, he does. He is able to answer our questions at the AGMs, even though we ask the same things every year...so he is also very patient. I think Ben understands that we want the building to be harmonious and kept in good order but that working with our… Read more

small building to minimise time spent at our end on strata matters is preferred. I have actually just sold my apartment and the purchaser's bank urgently needed insurance information for their loan and Ben kindly detailed the information for them promptly. I actually just recommended Ben to a friend because they are also in a building of 4 and want someone who understands the nuance required in such a small building.

Highly recommend Robinson Strata Managment!! – I have worked with Kristina from Robinson Strata Managment for more than 5 years now. I could not be happier… Communication has always been prompt , clear and courteous. They are a professional team of people who know what it takes to get things done.

Robinson Strata / Angela Carruthers – Robinson Strata Management and in particular our Strata Manager Angela Carruthers are very professional and supportive. We are a large strata plan and our dealings with them have always been efficient, informative and overall excellent.

very difficult to contact – hardly ever available for phone calls despite waiting long times to get through via a receptionist that takes ages to answer and tardy to reply to emails often missing the work order request

Unhelpful, unprofessional and rude - do not use – I am a former owner of a unit where Kristina was our appointed strata manager. We had a situation where we needed assistance with a common property issue. Kristina was extremely unprofessional, did not do her duty as a strata manager, and made inaccurate strata committee minutes. Her incompetence and inaction ended up costing us thousands of… Read more

dollars. We had an un-liveable unit and Kristina did nothing to help us. I have had interactions with other strata managers and would never recommend Robinsons. I recommend you read all the reviews on here and ask yourself which ones are actually worth their word-count. It is only when you have an issue that you really see a manager's skill level.

The most useless management I've ever come across – I can't believe that any of the 5 star reviews are real. These people have 'managed' our small building for the past 4 years and I have never in my life come across such utter incompetence and non-communicative, uncollaborative and unhelpful service. They don't give a damn and they're not afraid to show it. You can expect at least a weeks' delay… Read more

in any responses to requests. You'll get charged an arm and a leg for absolutely no service. When they do finally get back to you, they are usually trying to re-delegate any activity back to the home owners, because god forbid they should do any actual work. This behaviour is rife throughout the agency as there is no means of escalation, so if you have an issue, you're pretty much stuck with it. They know this, so they do the bare minimum as they think they can just get away with it. We cannot wait for our contract to end and to be able to just move away from these people. If I could vote you a Zero out of 5, I would. Our entire building committee agrees as well. Shame on you.

Review of Jana Antelmann – Jana has been looking after us in Manly for 9 months. We were quite disillusioned with our experience up to that time. She is efficient and I feel that she is always there despite our property having only 6 owners. Her advice is prompt, clear and delivered efficiently. Very pleasant to deal with and professional going the extra. Thank you

good service – I have been living in a block for 4 years, being the sole member of the strata committee. Kristina at Robinson's strata has been professional throughout. She is quick to respond and an efficient problem solver.

Very appreciative – I have lived for over seven years in a nine unit building strata managed by Robinsons. Ms. Kristina fast actioned issues requiring immediate remedy. Found Ms. Kristina always competent & so helpful that positive outcomes were achieved that benefited all who reside in the building. Clelia

Excellent Service – Professional high standards great organisation always on hand with valuable constructive support from our Strata Manager Angela Carruthers for more than 8 years always quick response at all time and issues resolved promptly and that is most important

Robinson Strata and their professional services – I have dealt with Robinson Strata for over nine years now dealing with Charles, Kristina, Ben and many others that have worked there over that time, their willingness to listen and act on any matters I have raised have been in a courteous and professional manner ending with results I have been more than happy with. I do not hesitate to recommend them to any who are looking for a strata manager. Nick W

Excellent service – Kristina Hopkins is a highly professional and knowledgeable manager who provides valuable support and advice. She acts quickly and communicates effectively Robinson Strata management have managed the building for more than two decades.

Quintex Property Services – As a service provider to the local strata industry, QPS has had a long and productive association with Robinson Strata. We all appreciate this is not the easiest of industries to operate within and praise for services provided is a rarity. Credit to Kristina and the rest of the team at Robinsons Strata

Excellent Strata Manager – As a fellow service provider I understand how important customer service really is.... Kristina at Robinson Strata has been a model of what an excellent Strata Manager should be. Specifically:- Fast and efficient with work requests and quotations, very responsive with all customer communication and has a broad knowledge of the Strata landscape.… Read more

Kristina gives you that feeling that someone knows what they are doing and will do what she says she will do. In a word, excellent!

Manly based regular contractor – Kristina, Ann, Ben, George and the rest of the team have always been fast acting, precise and professional on all tasks undertaken and managed. Tasks are sent out, actioned asap, followed up and finalised promptly. I've alway enjoyed working alongside Robinsons Strata over the years, secure in the knowledge that if I have an off day or fall short… Read more

of expectations they will pull me up on it and seek improvement or further action to be carried out. Contactable and easy to talk to, highly recommend this strata company.

Ian Campbell

Strata Manager Kristina – I have had the pleasure to have dealt with Strata Manager Kristina Hopkins from Robinson's Strata on a multitude of occasions. We have communicated for several years in connection with a property I own in a Unit Block. I have had dealings as both an owner and as a member of the Body Corporate with Kristina. Kristina is knowledgeable, polite,… Read more

helpful, efficient and works tirelessly towards positive outcomes. An asset to Robinson's Strata. Thank you for all your great work Kristina.

Great satisfaction – My wife and I own 2 investment home units in the Manly / Fairlight area. The first purchase was in 1994 and the second in 2014. Both were under strata administration with Robinson's and still are. We have been very pleased with our admin interface with Robinson’s over many years. Kristina and Lena both give us prompt and professional service… Read more

in a friendly manner. We recommend their services to any interested unit owner or potential purchaser.

Jeff Lea

Worthy of 5 STARS! – Kristina Hopkins conducts all communications in a very professional and efficient manner. Our Strata Committee meetings run smoothly and any issues seem to be handled effortlessly. I feel totally confident in Kristina's abilities in her role at Robinsons Strata Management.

Excellent – Robinsons Strata have managed our small block of 6 units for over 30 years and we have received excellent and curtious service over this period .Since Kristina has been our manager the service has improved with a more personal rapport.I trust her to perform her job with our issues in a professional manner

Robinson's Strata Management – Our Strata has enjoyed a very close and professional working relationship with Kristina ,in managing our block of 11 units for quite a few years . Her council on handling a number of very difficult issues has been of tremendous help and assistance to the committee and we would have no hesitation in recommending their services to other owners of Strata Plans .

Excellent Strata Management On Sydney’s Northern Peninsular – Our strata is a smaller style block of units located on Sydney’s Northern Peninsular. Robinson Strata Management has managed our strata for a number of years. We are in regular contact with Lena at Robinson regarding many aspects of managing the block, including cleaning, maintenance and regulatory compliance. Lena responds promptly and… Read more

effectively, working with us to deal with larger and smaller maintenance issues, compliance and other matters. We have found Lena to be prompt and professional, plus courteous, positive and friendly in our work together.

Kristina Hopkins – Kristina Manages our block and she has done a fantastic job. We recently did major repairs and Kristina handled this in a very professional manner. She is always helpful and nothing seems to be a problem. If we needed another Strata Manager I would select Kristina

Grateful for the Expertise – As Chairperson for my building I rely on Kristina’s advice with the day to day running of our building. She is always available for discussion and punctual with her replies either by phone or email. I am grateful for her support.

Kristina Hopkins – Ever since Kristina Hopkins has taken over our building as our strata management company, the block has improved. She has always gone well and beyond to fix any issues and nothing is a bother. It’s a relief to deal with Kristina

Friendly, helpful strata support – Kristina does an excellent job supporting our strata committee and owners - quick to respond, helpful, and very easy to deal with.

Pre-emptive Strata Manager – Lena Waite has been a breath of fresh air in managing our Strata. Decisions have been mindful, anticipating any possible concerns when dealing with maintenance issues for the apartment block. In the past managers have been supportive but not proactive when building issues have been raised. We have enjoyed efficient service from Lena and have a strong working relationship.

Our new strata Managers – Our building changed our strata management company last year. After years of frustration with our previous manager, it has been such a relief to deal with a company that actually helps us. Angela our direct manager has always answered our questions promptly, organized tradespersons in a very timely fashion as well as been a wealth of knowledge and… Read more

information regarding the strata laws and procedures that we need to follow. Angela has always been willing to help and guide us without interfering; such a welcome refreshing change! Thank you Angela.