Deferred maintenance is fixing things later than you should — usually because a scheme is underfunded. It's a problem because most building issues get exponentially worse and more expensive the longer they're left.
A $3,000 waterproofing repair done now can become a $40,000 structural repair in three years. A regular sinking fund, a current 10-year forecast, and a committee that prioritises essential works are the best protection. If your scheme has a long backlog, ask the manager to prepare a prioritised maintenance plan.
Compare written fee proposals from strata managers covering your building — free for owners corporations, no obligation.