As a landlord, ensuring your property meets compliance standards isn’t just a matter of ticking boxes; it’s about protecting lives and safeguarding your investment. At Aqwasun Estate Agents, we know firsthand the importance of working with detail-oriented property managers who understand and uphold safety and legal requirements.
Recently, we were contacted by a new client seeking a property appraisal. During the inspection, we identified significant compliance issues involving smoke alarms and blind cords – critical safety features for any residential property. What’s most concerning is that these issues had been overlooked by two prior agents, even though the property had only settled six months earlier. This case highlights why working with an experienced property manager who puts compliance first is invaluable.
Compliance Issues: Real Life, Real Risks
During our inspection, we discovered that a new door installation had disrupted the property’s smoke alarm compliance. Legally, all smoke alarms must be functional and positioned correctly at the time of settlement – a requirement overlooked here. We also found non-compliant blind cords, a serious risk for families with young children. Had these issues gone unaddressed and resulted in an accident, the owner could have faced severe legal consequences.
These oversights are not just risks to tenants’ safety; they pose a significant liability for landlords. The emotional toll of an avoidable accident, paired with potential legal repercussions, can be devastating. This situation clearly illustrates the importance of working with property managers who prioritise thorough safety and compliance checks.
Why Quality Property Management is an Investment in Safety
The client was understandably concerned about why property management fees can vary so widely. At Aqwasun, we believe you’re not just paying for property management services; you’re investing in peace of mind and a professional team with the expertise to spot these compliance gaps. Our team quickly identified two potentially life-threatening issues that previous agents missed. By choosing a quality property manager, landlords gain a team committed to legal compliance, tenant safety, and the protection of their investment.
Key Takeaways for Landlords
Here are critical reminders for landlords and property investors:
- Ensure smoke alarm compliance before leasing or finalising a sale to avoid liability and safeguard tenant safety.
- Check blind cord compliance to protect families with children and maintain a safe environment.
- Recognise that management fees reflect expertise – a reliable property manager who prioritises compliance can save far more than their fee.
- Understand the risks of overlooking compliance; lapses can result in severe legal consequences for landlords.
- Choose a proactive property management team with a strong reputation for identifying and resolving safety issues.
Compliance isn’t optional – it’s a responsibility that has real-world consequences. When selecting a property management team, look beyond costs and focus on proven expertise and dedication to safety.
To learn more about best practices in property management or for a compliance review of your properties, reach out to Aqwasun Estate Agents. Together, let’s keep your properties safe, compliant, and protected.