Security issues arising from short-stay apartment rentals including unauthorised building access and robberies will add to the concerns of property owners already expecting to deal with rowdy parties and other disturbances over the Australia Day holiday weekend, says Archers the Strata Professionals.
Archers the Strata Professionals Partner, Grant Mifsud, said Australia Day celebrations can often strain relations between neighbouring unit occupiers. Now there is also the fear of security and thefts linked to short-term holiday bookings through operators such as Airbnb and Stayz.
“An increasing issue now in some strata buildings surrounds the after-hours collection of apartment keys and building entry fobs for short-term occupants,” Mr Mifsud said.
“There have been many reports of security breaches caused by keys and fobs being left out for collection and not secured in lock boxes or similar allowing the wrong people gaining unlawful entry to properties.
“Of even more concern is a crime trend that has emerged around Australia with thieves booking short-term accommodation during long weekends, major sporting events and concerts. They take advantage of the situation to commit burglaries on unattended neighbouring units while holidaymakers are out having fun. Strata properties can be vulnerable to these crimes, particularly when there is no on-site security."
Mr Mifsud said Archers encouraged property owners to seek professional advice on improving security in apartment complexes that now have regular short term letting previously not in place.
“Bodies corporates can make buildings more secure by having on-site security, surveillance cameras and restricting entry and lift access fobs,” he said.
“Property owners and rental agents are also urged to report to police if they suspect a stolen credit card or a pseudonym has been used to make a booking.”
Mr Mifsud said the Australia Day celebrations can be a trying time for some apartment residents.
“Unfortunately, there will be parties where guests behave badly and excessive noise and other issues cause tensions between neighbours and complaints,” he said
To avoid complaints being made against owners or their tenants during Australia Day festivities, Mr Mifsud has these tips:
“These are some simple suggestions that should help keep the peace if there are Australia Day celebrations in apartment buildings,” Mr Mifsud said.
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