PM lost entry condition photos - going to VCAT

Hi
Tenants moved out and left the place in a not so great condition. PM put in application for VCAT. Subsequent to that I asked for entry condition photos so I could compare parts of the house. PM then noticed that the photos taken at entry were lost. What are your thoughts on chances of getting tenants bond to cover the damage/cleaning? We only have the entry condition report.
Thanks

 

How long is a piece of string etc... Entry photos are one piece of evidence. How much evidence do you have? What's the tenant's defence? etc etc

 

Does the entry condition report support your case? Does the agent have photos from their routine inspections?

 

Definitely hurts your chances. Could still build a strong case though. Its all about presenting it from the right angle.

 

I think it should be sufficient if is signed by the tenants. As long as you have some photos now and a convincing PM. i personally represent myself in VCAT all the time. it's an opportunity to hear both sides of the story and give you views etc.

 

let me take a guess,
landlord will suffer the consquences while the PM will just say bad luck

 

Yup, what Wylie said.

 

How detailed is the condition report?

I've gotten bond back at the end of a lease without photos, however it makes your life quite difficult unless there's clear damages. Saying something was "clean" and now isn't generally isn't enough. Also depending on the VCAT member they might get picky about no photos, cleanliness etc.

Also not good enough that the PM "lost" the photos. I'd be pushing for reimbursement should you lose at VCAT, unless there's a genuine reason, ie. agency didn't manage it when the tenant moved in.

 

Depending on the extent of damage, reasonable evidence can be used.
The pm can still put a case together and get it through.