Case Study
Case Study "A": Lessons in Proper Property Management

"We just didn't." These were the exact words from the agent when asked why they had never completed any of the required paperwork or property management tasks for Property "A." This shocking revelation exposed a string of negligence and incompetence that have cost the property owner in maintenance and time.  



The list of failures is disheartening:  



❌ No Applications  



❌ No Bond  



❌ No Rental Agreement  



❌ No Entry Condition Report  



❌ No Routine Inspections  



❌ No Safety Checks  



❌ No Anything! 



Upon taking over the management of Property "A" from agent "X," we were appalled to find that there was no property file at all. Agent "X" confessed that none of the necessary documents had ever been processed. There was no vetting or application process, no rental agreement was in place, no bond had been collected, and no entry condition report or key form was completed. Routine inspections and safety checks were simply non-existent.  



How could this happen? 



When we questioned agent "X" about the lack of necessary steps, their response was simply, "we just didn't." The property owner, who had trusted agent "X" to protect their valuable asset and manage the property, was completely unaware of this negligence. 



Now, the consequences of this mismanagement are becoming painfully clear.  



The previous tenant recently vacated the property, leaving it in a terrible condition. Upon inspection, we discovered numerous issues that must be addressed before the property can be re-let. Furniture and rubbish left behind by the previous tenant need to be removed. Walls and doors throughout the property are heavily damaged and require repair and repainting. Mould on the ceilings, walls, and shower in the bathroom. Smoke alarms are missing altogether, posing a serious safety risk. A thorough cleaning is also needed, along with other small repairs throughout the property. 



But what about VCAT?  



Unfortunately, due to agent "X" neglecting to complete the required documentation and reports, the property owner cannot make any claims to VCAT for the costs of the damage caused. Without proper exit condition reports from the previous tenant or entry condition reports from the current tenancy, it's impossible to determine when the damage occurred. As a result, the owner must wear the entire cost, and their insurance may refuse to provide coverage. 



How the KR Peters Team Can Help  



While frustrating, there is a glimmer of hope in this situation. The property owner has sought our services, and we are actively assisting them in preparing the property for re-letting.  



We are also addressing several serious issues we have uncovered with two other properties that were previously managed by agent "X." Our stringent processes and procedures ensure that the property owner will never deal with this kind of negligence under our management. From now on, the property owner can rest assured that their investments are in good hands. 



If you're uncertain about the proper protection and management of your Officer, Pakenham or Clyde property, don't hesitate to give us a call at (03) 5943 1111 or send us a quick message for an obligation-free discussion. We understand the importance of safeguarding your assets and are committed to providing you with reliable and professional property management services.