As property managers, we are in a unique position where we have more access to people’s lives and homes than most. We get to glimpse “behind the doors” of what goes on in someone’s private life. It is very much a privilege.
Unfortunately, Domestic and Family Violence is something we see all too often in our role.
And even though our legislation clearly outlines a process to follow, due to the highly emotional and incredibly personal nature of DFV, they are very rarely cut and dried situations.
This can leave a property owner naturally feeling anxious and uncertain about the impact upon their own circumstances, particularly if the information you are being provided with feels a little wishy washy in nature.
Due to the laws governing what we can and can’t disclose (they are very strict), if you have a renter experiencing DFV, as your property manager, we may not be able to provide all the details you would like. It’s a fine line that we tread.
Having said that, we will always do our best to ensure you are kept up to date as much as possible and we will make the process as transparent as we legally can.
What can you do as a property owner?
- Holding appropriate insurance is important, although we need to state that not every DFV situation results in property damage.
- Allow the process to run its course. This can be difficult, particularly if a renter remains in the property.
- Let us know your concerns. We are here to help and if we are not explaining the next steps in a way that makes sense to you or you are unsure about what is happening, please speak up.
With the Federal and State Governments both focused on ending domestic and family violence, we may see some further changes to our legislation rolled out.
Unfortunately, this kind of change will take time but we are hopeful it will happen because as individuals and as a community, we simply cannot tolerate Domestic and Family Violence.
Not now, not ever.
