First National gears up to help flood-affected tenants
First National Real Estate has launched an internal volunteer register for its 400-plus office network in anticipation of a deluge of property tenants seeking assistance as a result of the Queensland floods.
“As the Queensland floodwaters begin to recede, real estate agents will be swamped with calls for assistance from thousands of tenants living in rental properties damaged or destroyed by rising water," First National CEO Ray Ellis said today.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
Using the register, First National will be able to direct the expertise of property managers and estate agents in unaffected offices to where it will be of greatest help to customers in expediting their recovery.
“Some of our property managers will face astronomical challenges finding trades people to help with the enormous clean up and repair tasks. There may also be additional challenges posed by issues of electrical safety, structural stability, health threats or problems such as insurance companies who may refuse to pay claims as a result of rising water damage,” Mr Ellis said.
Given that some First National offices are currently dealing with power outages, equipment losses, or staff are simply cut off from their place of work, First National Real Estate has provided a 24-hour emergency hotline for tenants in flood damaged properties who cannot reach their local First National member
“We’re doing everything we can think of to support our agents in the process of supporting our customers,” said Mr Ellis.
Tenants seeking help should contact Network Property Manager, Dahlene Qama, on 1800 032 332.
