Navigating the rental market can be a challenge at the best of times, but when property managers fail to meet their obligations, it can turn a tenant's life upside down. This is a tale that many Australian renters may find all too familiar, and it's one that Adelaide's Eliza Andersen-Ponton knows all too well. Her recent ordeal with her property manager's 'unprofessional' behaviour has struck a chord with renters nationwide, highlighting the often fraught relationship between tenants and property management.

Eliza, a 28-year-old occupational telehealth therapist, took to TikTok to vent her frustrations after her property manager repeatedly failed to show up for scheduled inspections. This wasn't just a minor inconvenience; it was causing significant disruptions to her work and income. With each missed appointment, Eliza was forced to miss out on about $200 worth of work, a substantial hit for anyone, let alone a new mother trying to balance her professional life with the demands of a newborn.

The property in question, a $550-a-week home on the outskirts of Adelaide, became the centre of a series of no-shows that began in August. Eliza, heavily pregnant at the time, was forgiving of the first rescheduled inspection. However, patience wore thin as subsequent inspections were either cancelled after the appointment time or simply never occurred, with no communication from the property manager.

Eliza Andersen-Ponton, an Adelaide renter, was frustrated by missed inspections. Credit: @elizarose1996 / TikTok

The frustration of preparing for these inspections cannot be understated. Tenants often go to great lengths to ensure their homes are in pristine condition, which can be especially challenging with a five-month-old baby. Eliza's work in the mental health and disability space adds another layer of complexity, as confidentiality is paramount, and having people in and out of the home during sessions is not an option.

The situation reached a boiling point when, after a no-show in January, the property manager promised to arrive between 11 am and 1 pm on a new date, only to fail to turn up again. Eliza's attempts to accommodate the inspection around her telehealth client sessions were met with further delays and eventual cancellations, leaving her income and professional schedule in disarray.

The third inspection, scheduled for a Wednesday morning, was the final straw. With the property manager once again absent and a client session looming, Eliza took to TikTok to share her story and seek advice. The response was overwhelming, with thousands sympathizing with her plight and sharing their own rental inspection horror stories.

Some recounted experiences of property managers arriving hours late or not at all, while others shared tales of unannounced early entries and even property managers using their bathrooms without permission. The collective frustration was palpable, with many Aussies labelling the behaviour as 'unprofessional' and indicative of a broader issue where renters are treated as 'second-class citizens.'

Eliza's attempts to communicate her grievances via email were met with silence, as her property manager neither responded nor answered subsequent phone calls. This lack of communication and respect is a sore point for many tenants who feel powerless in the face of unresponsive property management.

This story is a stark reminder of the importance of professionalism and communication in the rental industry. Property managers have a duty to respect tenants' time and livelihoods, and when they fail to do so, it can have serious repercussions. For Eliza, it meant lost income and added stress during an already challenging time.

As we reflect on Eliza's experience, it's essential to remember that tenants have rights, and there are steps they can take when faced with such issues. Reporting unprofessional behaviour to a higher authority within the real estate firm, seeking advice from tenant advocacy groups, or even considering a formal complaint to a state-based consumer affairs or tenancy tribunal are all options.

Credit: TikTok​

Key Takeaways

• Eliza Andersen-Ponton, an Adelaide renter, was frustrated with her property manager for repeatedly failing to show up for scheduled inspections.
• Due to the missed inspections, she had to miss work, impacting her income as an occupational telehealth therapist.
• The property manager's repeated no-shows and lack of communication were deemed disrespectful and unprofessional.
• The situation led to a wide response on TikTok, with many sympathising with Andersen-Ponton's predicament and reflecting on similar experiences with property managers.

To our readers over 60 who may have faced similar challenges or know someone who has, we invite you to share your experiences and advice in the comments below. How have you navigated the complexities of the rental market, and what tips can you offer to those who find themselves in situations like Eliza's? Your wisdom and insights are invaluable to our community, and together, we can support each other through the ups and downs of renting in Australia.

 

[deni67]

Our last inspection didn't happen either, she just didn't turn up and didn't reply to any emails, texts, or calls. I had to reschedule an appointment with my oncologist which luckily I could get a new one within a week.

 

[marni]

Are these people not answerable to a higher up manager ? The company would not be on my agent list if I were to buy or sell a house. Best to name and shame - after you vacate of course

 

[Bridgit]

Our last inspection didn't happen either, she just didn't turn up and didn't reply to any emails, texts, or calls. I had to reschedule an appointment with my oncologist which luckily I could get a new one within a week.

Don't reschedule your appointments - if it clashes with your schedule ask that it be made when you are free. These people need to be accommodating - peaceful enjoyment comes to mind re: property.

 

[Sherza]

He chances are she will not have her lease renewed now because she spoke out. They will find and excuse to boot her.
I’ve seen it happen a few times now. They don’t want tenants that will stand up for their rights

 

[Luckyus]

Don't they have an Ombudsman or a tribunal they can call? I remember I had to use them once in Victoria, I rang them on the Monday they were there Tuesday after the seeing the problems gave the landlord 48 hrs to comply with their recommendations now this was forty years ago so might have gone to hell since.

 

[gamiry]

I fortunately have a lovely lady called Codee at Michaels in Bundaberg but I was looking for something else after 41/2 years. I inquired about a house with another agent. Was informed that what I was looking at that was supposed to be a "house" for $300 pw. What a joke. When my carer and I looked into it this place was a granny flat on a property, a granny flat with a house. The house had the owners with one son and the granny flat was shared by another son who used your power and belongings so it turned out to be NOT a house but ONE ROOM shared with one of their family members for $300pw. 2 weeks later this is still on the market.

 

[Kevin. A.]

I would be telling the property manager if you do not turn up for the inspection and cannot be bothered to contact you before the time and date then you just blew your chance to inspect the property. You can contact the ombudsman to sort this individual out. They turn up at an agreed time and on time, no later and no excuses. You should be able to get some compensation from the owner for loss of income, even it is reduced rent for the inconvenience they have caused you. It is their fault you have lost the income.

 

[Logical7]

Simple Eliza. I would ring the Residential Tenancy Association and report her actions and lack of professionalism. They could set up a time via phone where you can present your case and concerns, and the RTA will deliberate on the outcome of the hearing.