Students Ruin Reputation for Accommodation in Varsity

(By Natasha Cruz and Rhania Farah – Bond University Journalism Students)

Many local realtors said students were among the worst tenants because they left residential apartments in an unacceptable condition.

On-site manager for the Cape, Retreat and Reserve Lorraine Siffons said students occupied roughly 75 percent of apartments.

Mrs Siffons said not all student renters were problematic, but some students had no consideration for other people’s property.

“We had [a unit] abandoned the other day with holes in the walls and doors, total rubbish all over the floor,” she said.

Robina Realty employee Rebecca McCall said some students left apartments in an uninhabitable state.

“[One apartment was left] in a disgusting state with rubbish all over the ground, they had left without paying any money … dirty clothes where everywhere,” she said “It was ridiculous".

“We are still waiting for the insurance company to pay for all of that.”

Varsity Lakes resident and student Hezaa Zaal said there was no reason why students could not maintain their apartments.

“I live in the Retreat and have friends over all the time, but I still manage to keep my apartment clean and presentable,” he said.

Hezaa said if students did not have the time or desire to maintain their rental properties they could pay someone else.

“I get my apartment cleaned regularly … it’s affordable and practical,” he said.
Master Transformations maintenance man Fred Aharonian said he had serviced student apartments in the Varsity Lakes and Robina area.

“I have fixed walls, broken tiles and sinks all damaged by students,” he said.

Mr Aharonian said students usually don’t understand the responsibilities of living on their own.

“Usually students are first timers living out of home … they don’t know any better as they’re used to having parents around,” he said.

However, property manager Christofer Giannaros said he only rented properties out to particular students.

“During the screening process of student applicants, maturity, hygiene and history of paying rent on time are the most important factors I consider,” he said.

For more information visit the Residential Tenancies Authority website on www.rta.qld.gov.au