Done a runner. Did the moonlight flit. Flown the coop.
Whatever you call it, running away, abandoning a rental property may be a quick fix remedy for a tenant but creates an arduous task for the landlord/agent. To fix up. To clean up. To pay in lost time. To cause financial loss.
Failure to pay rent and leaving a rental property, unsecured, wide open (for days on end) and shooting through is far from cool. It’s a sharp slap in the face. To the trust and goodwill given by the landlord. The very person that handed over their valuable asset to provide safety and shelter. Shame, shame, shame.
For the record, aspects of the Step Up Property systemised ‘fix up’ approach include:
* VCAT application and hearing to declare property abandoned.
* Successfully prove, with evidence, that tenant has bailed out and run.
* Obtain VCAT order of possession.
* Arrange locksmith to change locks.
* Complete condition report, list required cleaning, rubbish, damages. Photograph.
* Organise clean up. Cleaners, gardeners, tradespeople.
* Request Consumer Affairs Victoria inspection. All items are recorded and photographed and approximate value recorded. If the goods are worth less than cost to store, permission to destroy/dispose is granted. You must never simply throw the tenant’s belongings away without permission. As much as you want to out of frustration. Don’t. Ever. Period. Get Form Here
* Organise rubbish/goods removal.
* Lodge VCAT application for bond and compensation. Attend hearing. Obtain order.
* Claim bond from Residential Tenancies Bond Authority.
* List tenant and default on TICA (Tenancy Information Centre Australia)
* Request certified order from VCAT and lodge debt in Magistrates Court to have debt registered against tenant.
* Start looking for a new tenant (look for a future blog on these steps).
My most recent experience, or episode as I refer to it as, of cleaning up after a pack of conscienceless numbskulls, was garnished by the remains of a two week old (at least) roast! They left that quick. Yes, the cherry on top (pictured) was awaiting me in the closed oven. I’ll say, thank goodness it wasn’t Summer! Tangy was an understatement.
Pass the dessert menu please.
If this happens to you or you know of someone that has had a bad taste left in their mouth (pardon the pun) by absconding tenants, remember that Step Up Property are well experienced and equipped to assist with prompt clean up and remedy, ensuring your legal compliance and subsequent protection.
You’re not alone. It happens to the best of us. This was one of mine.
Personally, I would have preferred the dinner date with Tom Cruise.
Mum, you can keep your festy roast!
Bon appetite,
Jaylee
