How to prepare for Schoolies

Each year, more than 50,000 school leavers attend Schoolies, with thousands flocking to the Gold Coast to celebrate.

Wilful damage to property, overcrowding and excessive noise are just some of the recurring problems property managers face during the notorious party week, which kicks off 19 November.

To reduce the risk of damage, unit owners should revisit their behaviour management plan and discuss clear ground rules and mitigation strategies with their resident manager for school leavers to follow.

We recommend this is done as early as possible to ensure graduates have ample time to review the guidelines with their parents and fellow Schoolies.

Relevant building regulations to be supplied include noise restriction times, guest visiting hours, the use of glass in pool areas and the cost of fixing damages to assets.

To achieve a harmonious outcome for all involved, property owners and resident managers are encouraged to enforce the following ‘house rules’:

• No glass bottles in the room or pool area (bag checks can be carried out by onsite security)
• Maximum of two external guests permitted to the room at any given time, with identification held at reception (this restricts the likelihood of house parties)
• Pool rules and restrictions (no access after 9pm)
• Secure rooftops to prohibit dangerous stunts, including ‘rooftopping’
• Zero tolerance policy for misbehaviour on balconies
• Noise must be kept to a minimum
• Dangerous behaviour will be dealt with by police.

Requesting a large bond deposit will ensure any damage caused can be fixed, and often prohibits damage as Schoolies are always eager to get their bond back. This bond must be paid by every prospective guest, not just one person.

While damage made to the property or contents during the week will be deducted from the tenant’s bond, accommodation providers are required to have a complaint handling process. If a resolution cannot be reached, a formal complaint can also be made to the Office of Fair Trading by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

This article was contribute by Grant Mifsud – Partner, Archers the Strata Professionals.