5TH GUEST SPEAKER ANNOUNCED: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MAJOR WORKS ACTUALLY BEGIN?

Planning a major works is one thing. Delivering it on site is another.

We’re pleased to introduce our fifth guest speaker for the upcoming Smart Strata Community Education Seminar Series — Chris Lethlean, Operations Manager at Buildcheck & Silveira Consultants, who will be joining the panel to share practical insights into Major Strata Maintenance Projects and what happens once works are underway.

When Major Works Plans Meet Reality

Many strata communities spend significant time planning major works, reviewing reports, budgets and contractor quotes. But once a project begins, a new set of challenges often emerges.

Access constraints, unexpected building conditions, contractor coordination, safety requirements and resident impact all need to be managed in real time.

Even well-planned projects can encounter:

• Unforeseen defects once works commence.
• Changes to scope or sequencing.
• Communication challenges between stakeholders.
• The need to balance timelines, cost and quality.

This is where practical project experience becomes critical.

From Planning to Major Works Delivery

Chris brings a hands-on perspective to the panel, focusing on how major works are actually delivered in live environments.

At the seminar, Chris will share insights into:

• Who is involved in managing works on site and coordinating contractors.
• What commonly changes once projects begin and how to respond.
• When decisions need to be made quickly to keep projects moving.
• Why communication is critical throughout the delivery phase.
• How to manage quality, compliance and cost while works are underway.

These are the practical realities that can significantly influence the success of a project.

What Committees Often Don’t See During Major Works

For many committees and owners, the visible part of a project is only a small piece of the process.

Behind the scenes, project delivery involves:

• Coordinating multiple trades and timelines.
• Ensuring works meet legislative and compliance requirements.
• Managing safety and site access.
• Monitoring quality and workmanship.
• Resolving issues as they arise.

Understanding this process helps committees set realistic expectations and make more informed decisions throughout the lifecycle of major strata maintenance projects.

About Chris Lethlean

Chris Lethlean is an experienced Project Manager with over 20 years in the remedial building sector.

As Operations Manager at Buildcheck & Silveira Consultants, he specialises in complex repairs, façade restoration, waterproofing upgrades and structural remediation across residential, commercial and strata buildings.

Chris is known for his strong technical knowledge, clear communication and ability to lead onsite teams, delivering high-quality, compliant and cost-effective project outcomes.

Join The Conversation

Chris Lethlean will be joining our expert panel at the upcoming seminar series on the Sunshine Coast, alongside other industry professionals, to provide practical insight into how Major Strata Maintenance Projects are managed from planning through to delivery.

If your scheme is planning major works, or knows they are on the horizon, this is an opportunity to better understand what to expect once projects begin, and how to navigate the process with greater confidence.

Airlie Beach

Thursday 7 May 2026
Coral Sea Resort
Click here to register

Sunshine Coast

Thursday 14 May 2026
Maroochy RSL
Click here to register

Brisbane

Wednesday 20 May 2026
The Broncos
Click here to register

Cairns

Thursday 28 May 2026
Pullman Reef Casino
Click here to register

Gold Coast

Wednesday 3 June 2026
People’s First Stadium
Click here to register

Smart Strata Community Education Seminar Series

Maintenance & Major Projects: The Who, What, When, Why and How

Delivered in partnership with Archers the Strata Professionals, this seminar series is designed to educate, engage and connect strata communities across Queensland.

Through expert panel discussions, real-world case studies and practical insights, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to plan, fund and deliver major works in strata schemes.

Canapés and beverages will be served, with great prizes to be won on the evening.

We look forward to welcoming you to the seminar series this May and June.

Article Contributed by Smart Strata.