AI in Property Management: From buzzword to everyday tool

Not long ago, “AI in property” sounded like a buzzword. Today, it’s part of daily operations for a growing number of managers, contractors, and service providers.

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The biggest impact so far has been in predictive maintenance. AI systems are analysing HVAC, electrical, and plumbing data to predict failures weeks in advance, reducing downtime, slashing emergency callouts, and giving managers peace of mind. According to the Facilities Management Association, buildings using predictive AI tools have cut downtime by up to 25% in 2025.

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AI is also transforming compliance. Instead of filing cabinets and manual checklists, AI-driven platforms automatically generate audit reports, flag gaps, and store documentation digitally. Regulators in NSW and VIC are increasingly encouraging digital first compliance records, making AI a natural fit for the sector.

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It doesn’t stop there. Tenant experience is being reshaped too. AI chatbots and service portals are providing instant communication, ensuring issues are logged and actioned without delay. For residents, that means transparency and accountability; for managers, it means fewer missed requests.

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The challenge is adoption. While some commercial towers in Sydney and Melbourne are leading the charge, many smaller strata and facility portfolios are still hesitant, citing cost, complexity, or lack of training. Yet the global trend is clear: AI is not a future addon. It’s becoming a baseline expectation in property management.

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For Australian property professionals, the question isn’t if AI will reshape the industry, it’s how quickly you’re prepared to adapt.