A property manager looks after the commercial and legal side of a property, such as leases, rent, outgoings and tenant relationships. A facilities manager looks after how the building physically operates, such as cleaning, maintenance, safety compliance and contractors. In practice the two work closely together.
Property management focuses on
- Leases, rent collection and arrears.
- Budgets, outgoings and owner reporting.
- Tenant relationships and complaints.
- Lease compliance, such as make-good and insurance.
Facilities management focuses on
- Cleaning, hygiene and waste.
- Planned and reactive maintenance.
- Essential safety measures and compliance records.
- Managing contractors, licences and insurances.
- Asset condition and replacement planning.
Where they overlap
Both care about the tenant experience and the building condition. A property manager often relies on a facilities provider to deliver the day-to-day work, then reports to the owner.
Why it matters when buying services
If you are a property manager or strata manager, you may be the person who appoints a facilities provider. Look for one that reports in a format you can pass to owners and tenants.
Do you need both?
Most commercial buildings need both functions. Some organisations have them in one team, some outsource one or both.
Frequently asked questions
Does Progress provide property management?
Progress provides facilities and asset management, cleaning, maintenance and building works. For leasing and rent collection, you would speak to a property manager, and we can work alongside them.
Who should I call about a broken light in a tenancy?
It depends on who is responsible under the lease. The property manager can confirm, and the facilities provider usually carries out the work.
This page is general information about the topic and is not legal, financial or safety advice. Requirements vary by state, site and contract. Last reviewed 30 October 2026.