Concerns with the increase in safety responsibilities outside of the core function of property management have been recognised by the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales.
REINSW CEO Tim McKibbin said over recent years there has been an escalation of the legal obligations associated with the role of property managers.
“Property managers are now expected to have competencies and express an opinion as to the integrity and respective safety of a broad range of building and safety issues including, glass, asbestos, window safety locks, smoke alarms, decks and balconies as well as swimming pools, and this not an exhaustive list.
“This extension of duties and responsibilities is a growing concern for the Institute,” Mr McKibbin said.
PropertySafe Managing Director Phil Oakes agreed the levels of injuries and, sadly, deaths in residential homes, whether they are owner-occupied or tenanted, are simply too high.
“We’re proud to have entered into a strategic relationship with REINSW to address these issues,” Mr Oakes said.
“With the proper education involving the key stakeholders, we believe that the growing trend can be reversed. This can be achieved by identifying any safety hazards in the property and ensuring that ongoing maintenance is well managed.
“The statics on injuries, deaths and claims are alarming, especially when the vast majority are avoidable with very little cost for the landlord.
“The family home is supposed to be a safe environment. If an accident occurs the impact is devastating for all those involved. For rental properties this also has a big impact on the landlord and property manager, potentially both emotionally and financially. With the assistance of REINSW, we will be running workshops to show real estate professionals how they can regain control.
“PropertySafe is excited to work with REINSW and know that by creating the awareness and providing the appropriate skills we will make a difference,” Mr Oakes said.
Further information or to interview REINSW CEO Tim McKibbin or PropertySafe Managing Director Phil Oakes please contact: Helen Hull – 0419 642 961 or [email protected].
About PropertySafe
PropertySafe has created a unique system to identify safety issues in residential properties, and for property managers, it provides an online maintenance management system to communicate with landlords, tenants, strata managers and trades suppliers to ensure every maintenance task is efficiently managed to completion.
About REINSW
The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW) is the largest professional association and the peak industry body for real estate agents and property professionals in NSW. With a track record and reputation of delivering valued products and services, REINSW promotes and responds to the changing needs of its members and boasts over 100 years of experience.