Who this article is for
Buyers and buyer’s agents who want to know who is writing their Expert Report
Anyone wondering what “strata expert” means on Cohabit and how those experts are selected
What is a “strata expert” on Cohabit?
On Cohabit, strata experts are independent professionals who:
Regularly review strata records (minutes, financials, insurance, compliance, works, defects, issues), and
Turn what they find into clear, practical insights for buyers.
Many are strata inspectors or consultants who specialise in strata reports.
There’s no formal licence called “strata expert” – Cohabit focuses on real experience and report quality, not just a title.
How we vet strata experts
Before experts can prepare reports on Cohabit, we check:
1. Experience
Strong background working with strata records
Prior work in strata inspections, reporting or advisory roles
2. Report quality
Can spot key risks and patterns, not just restate documents
Explain things simply and clearly for buyers
Organise findings across key areas like Financials, Compliance, Meetings, Works, Defects and Issues
3. Knowledge of local strata rules
Understand relevant state/territory strata laws and common practices
Know what’s normal vs what might be a red flag in strata records
4. Professionalism and independence
Solid professional track record
Balanced, independent reporting (not building “sales pitches”)
Sensible approach to conflicts of interest
We may also consider relevant industry memberships or training, where that applies.
Ongoing checks
Cohabit may:
Review reports for consistency and clarity
Look at buyer/owner feedback
Remove or coach experts whose work doesn’t meet expectations
The goal: reports that are useful, honest and understandable from a buyer’s point of view.
What this means for you as a buyer
Because experts are vetted:
You’re not left alone with raw documents – you get help from someone used to decoding strata records
Reports are written to be straightforward to read, not full of jargon
You get building-specific insights you can take to your conveyancer, solicitor or broker
Experts help you see the building more clearly, but they don’t replace your own professional advice.
Important limitations
Expert Reports are based on the records available and authorised at the time. If something isn’t in those records, it may not appear.
They are not legal, financial or tax advice tailored to you.
Always share key findings with your conveyancer/solicitor and other advisers before deciding what to do.
FAQs
Are strata experts independent from agents and developers?
Yes. They are independent professionals. Their job is to interpret records honestly – even if that means pointing out serious issues.
Is a strata expert a lawyer or financial adviser?
No. They focus on strata records and building history. You still need your own conveyancer/solicitor, broker and advisers.
Can I talk to my expert after I get the report?
Yes. When you buy an Expert Report, you get a message thread with that expert in Messages, plus notifications on web and mobile when they reply. See How to chat with your expert.
Does vetting mean the building is “good”?
No. Vetting is about the quality of the expert, not the building. A well-vetted expert might still tell you the building has major issues, which is exactly what you want to know.