Ever had a notice go out to residents that barely got read? Or an urgent message that took ages to reach everyone? That’s where Facebook can help.
More buildings are starting to set up a Body Corporate Facebook page or private group to connect with residents more easily. It’s not about replacing formal letters or emails—it’s about reaching people where they already spend time. So, how does it work in practice?
Let’s walk through the idea.
Why Facebook Makes Sense for Body Corporates
People don’t always check their emails. They often ignore letters until the last minute. But most of us check Facebook daily—sometimes without even thinking.
That’s what makes it handy for body corporate communication. A Facebook group or page gives you a way to share updates quickly, with less fuss and delay. It can even make the building feel more connected, especially when people get to know each other a little better online.
You don’t need to be tech-savvy or have a social media background. The set-up is straightforward and, once done, can save time for both committees and residents.
Page or Group: What’s the Difference?
A Body Corporate Facebook page works a bit like a newsletter. It's public, easy to find, and lets the admin post updates. Residents can comment, but they don’t usually post their own announcements.
A Facebook group for residents, on the other hand, is more private. It can be made invisible to non-members and is great for back-and-forth conversation. That means residents can ask questions, share quick updates, and even give feedback.
Both can be useful. Some buildings use a public page for announcements and a private group for day-to-day chat. Others stick with just one, depending on how active the community is.
What Can You Share in a Facebook Group?
Facebook isn’t the place for financial documents or formal meeting minutes. But it’s great for everyday updates like:
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Reminder about bin night
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Notice that the pool’s closed for maintenance
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A quick survey on preferred meeting times
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Lost keys or parcels
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A heads-up about noise works
It can also cut down the number of emails flying back and forth, especially for smaller queries or informal matters.
Keeping It Simple and Safe
Like anything, a bit of planning helps things run smoothly. Here are a few ways to keep it manageable:
Appoint Admins
There should be at least one person responsible for the page or group—ideally two or three. These can be committee members or trusted volunteers. The admin doesn’t need to post all the time, but they should be able to approve new members, remove spam, and keep things respectful.
Set Group Rules
Short, clear rules can help avoid confusion. These might include keeping the group friendly, avoiding personal disputes, and using the right channel for formal requests. Pinning the rules to the top of the group helps make expectations clear.
Add the Group to Your Welcome Pack
New residents should know about the group from the start. Add a link to your welcome pack or include it in the first email you send when someone moves in. That way, they don’t miss out on updates or feel left out of the loop.
Keep Formal Notices Outside Facebook
Even if your group is active, always send formal notices through email or post. Facebook is useful for reminders and discussion—but not for anything legally required.
A Real-Life Example That Works
The team at ABCM Facilities Management has put together a practical guide on how to set up a Body Corporate Facebook page the right way. It covers privacy, admin control, and how to get residents involved without it becoming a free-for-all.
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