What is the difference between the OMC and property management agent?

In multi-unit developments (like apartment blocks), two key roles are often confused: the Owners’ Management Company (OMC) and the Property Management Agent. Here’s how they differ:

🏢 Owners’ Management Company (OMC)

• The OMC is a legal entity made up of the owners of the units (e.g., apartment owners).
• Every owner automatically becomes a member or shareholder of the OMC when they buy a unit.
• The OMC is responsible for owning and maintaining the common areas—this includes hallways, lifts, gardens, lighting, and structural elements like the roof.
• It also collects service charges to cover these costs.
• The OMC is governed by a Board of Directors, usually made up of volunteer owners.

🛠️ Property Management Agent

• The agent is a third-party company hired by the OMC to carry out day-to-day management of the building.
• Their role includes:
  • Organising repairs and maintenance
  • Managing cleaning and landscaping contracts
  • Collecting service charges on behalf of the OMC
  • Handling emergency repairs and resident queries
• They do not own the building or make high-level decisions—they act under the instruction of the OMC Board.

✅ Summary

In short:
The OMC owns and controls the building’s common areas, while the property management agent works for the OMC to keep things running smoothly.