QS Sign‑Off for Strata Levies (2026 Guide)

QS Sign-Off for Strata Levies (2026 Guide)

Strata schemes across New South Wales are legally required to maintain adequate funds for repairs, maintenance and long‑term capital works. To ensure levies are set correctly, many Owners Corporations now seek a QS Sign‑Off — an independent verification by a Registered Quantity Surveyor confirming that the proposed levies and capital works funding align with realistic construction and maintenance costs.

A QS sign‑off provides confidence to owners, strata managers and committees that levies are fair, compliant and based on accurate cost forecasting rather than guesswork.

At MSQS, we provide fast, accurate and compliant QS sign‑offs for strata levies, capital works funds and maintenance planning.

What Is a QS Sign‑Off for Strata Levies?

A QS Sign‑Off is a formal certification prepared by a Quantity Surveyor confirming that:

• The strata scheme’s capital works fund forecast is accurate

• The proposed levies are sufficient to meet future maintenance obligations

• The cost estimates for repairs, renewals and upgrades are realistic

• The plan complies with the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015

• The Owners Corporation is not underfunding or overfunding the scheme

This sign‑off is often requested by:

• Strata committees

• Strata managers

• Owners Corporations

• Auditors

• Building managers

It ensures the financial planning for the building is based on independent, professional cost advice.

Why Strata Schemes Need QS Sign‑Off

Strata buildings must maintain a 10‑year Capital Works Fund Plan (formerly known as a Sinking Fund Plan). However, many plans are prepared without proper cost data, leading to:

• Underfunding (levies too low)

• Overfunding (owners paying more than necessary)

• Inaccurate repair timelines

• Unexpected special levies

• Poor long‑term financial planning

A QS sign‑off prevents these issues by providing:

✔ Independent cost verification

Ensures levies match real construction and maintenance costs.

✔ Compliance with NSW legislation

Supports the requirements of the Strata Schemes Management Act.

✔ Transparency for owners

Builds trust and reduces disputes over levy increases.

✔ Protection against special levies

Accurate forecasting reduces the need for sudden one‑off payments.

✔ Professional documentation for audits

Many auditors now request QS‑verified cost plans.

What’s Included in a QS Sign‑Off for Strata Levies

A compliant QS sign‑off typically includes:

• Review of the existing Capital Works Fund Plan

• Verification of maintenance and renewal costs

• Updated cost estimates based on current market rates

• Identification of underfunded or overfunded items

• Revised levy recommendations (if required)

• A formal QS certification letter

• Clear, transparent reporting for owners and strata managers

MSQS prepares all reports using current NSW construction pricing and industry benchmarks.

Common Items Assessed in a QS Sign‑Off

We verify costs for:

• Roofing repairs and replacement

• Waterproofing and façade works

• Painting cycles

• Driveways, paving and landscaping

• Fire services and compliance upgrades

• Electrical and lighting

• Plumbing and drainage

• Lift maintenance and refurbishment

• Common area refurbishments

• Structural repairs

• Building services upgrades

Accurate costing ensures levies reflect the true lifecycle of the building.

How MSQS Prepares QS Sign‑Off Reports

Our process is designed to be fast, accurate and compliant:

1. Review of Existing Strata Documentation

We analyse the current capital works plan, maintenance history and building condition.

2. Cost Verification

We update and verify all cost items using current market rates and QS benchmarks.

3. Funding Assessment

We assess whether the current levies are adequate for the next 10 years.

4. Recommendations

We provide revised levy amounts if adjustments are required.

5. QS Certification

A Registered Quantity Surveyor signs off the report for strata records and audits.

6. Fast Delivery

Most QS sign‑offs are completed within 2–3 business days.

Why Accurate Strata Levies Matter

Incorrect levies can lead to:

• Special levies

• Budget shortfalls

• Disputes between owners

• Delayed maintenance

• Increased long‑term repair costs

• Non‑compliance with NSW legislation

A QS sign‑off ensures the building is financially prepared for future works.

Why Choose MSQS

• Reports prepared by Registered Quantity Surveyors

• Fully compliant with NSW strata legislation

• Fast turnaround — 2–3 business days

• Clear, transparent cost verification

• Trusted by strata managers and committees across NSW

• Over 10 years of experience in building maintenance costing

MSQS ensures your strata levies are accurate, compliant and independently verified.

In Summary

A QS Sign‑Off for Strata Levies provides independent assurance that your building’s capital works funding is accurate, compliant and sufficient for future maintenance. It protects owners from unexpected costs and ensures the building remains financially stable.

MSQS delivers accurate, compliant and timely QS sign‑offs for strata schemes across NSW.

Need a compliant QS Sign Off for your strata building? MSQS prepares certified QS sign offs for developers, strata managers, and owners corporations across NSW.

Contact the MSQS team today