The festive season is almost upon us and it’s time to slow down and, for many, enjoy a much-needed break.  Omar Kinnear, developer of communication app, ResidentPortal, shares some tips for Estate Managers that will make for a peaceful and happy season in their complexes or estates.

He recommends that Estate Managers send out a Season’s Greetings newsletter that connects in a friendly way with residents, reminding them of rules but also giving them useful information that they will appreciate.

Rules

 “It’s important to remind residents of the scheme’s rules, especially those relating to access control, speeding, noise, fireworks, water restrictions and any that relate to the use of facilities such as playgrounds and, especially, swimming pools,” says Kinnear.

“Noise, alcohol, bored children getting up to mischief and New Year fireworks are common causes of conflict during the holiday season, so it’s an opportune time for Estate Managers to set the scene for what is expected during the holidays.”

Security

The newsletter should also remind residents who are going away to ensure their homes are securely locked, with closed windows – and not forgetting balcony doors.  Geysers should be switched off and alarm systems and day-night light switches should be checked to ensure they are working.

“Residents should let their neighbours know if they are going away and ask them to keep an eye on their properties, and to leave contact details should they need to get hold of them in the event of a problem.”

Pets

Owners must ensure that pets are well taken care off, either looked after by a trustworthy neighbour or professional pet-sitter, or they should be booked into a cattery or kennel.

Contact numbers

Importantly, the Estate Manager should provide residents with a list of contact numbers, such as:

• Estate manager + after hours / public holidays

• Managing agents / account queries
• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Emergency Services, including police and ambulance services.

Self service

“The more information residents have access to, the less they will need to contact someone for that information, giving managers much needed time to rest and relax before the new year starts,” Kinnear points out.

“It helps if the scheme uses a communications portal such as ResidentPortal.  If that’s the case, residents can be reminded that they can contact scheme management or approved service providers through the system.

“They will also be able to access any scheme information or documents directly through the  system, as well as book facilities such as the clubhouse or tennis court.”

Friendly touch

Residents staying at home during the holidays can also be reminded of facilities available for them to enjoy in the estate or complex and even, in the surrounding area, such as carols by candlelight or any other festive events.

“A nice touch would be for the estate manager to add a list of 10 ‘staycation’ ideas with residents,” he says.  Some examples:

• Cook Dinner with your partner
• Movie Night
• Go for a picnic
• Go to a local museum
• Explore your city
• Visit the botanical gardens
• Go for a hike
• Go Shopping
• Play board games
• Catch up on reading

Kinnear believes the most fundamentally important trait for a good estate manager to possess is the ability to communicate and relate to people.  “A final ‘Seasons Greetings’ newsletter with content as suggested will go a long way to ensuring that the holiday season can be enjoyed, with minimal stress for everyone,” he concludes.

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