The existence of an integrated delivery structure for housing services and training programs for renters and owners which is accessible to any housing organization or individual is non-evident in Winnipeg. The traditional property management approach of reprimanding and/or evicting tenants who do not possess this skill development is usually inherited by other property owners.
Inner city caretakers have a great responsibility. Ensuring the safety and security of their tenants and their building at the same time is challenging and essential to the safety and security of their surrounding neighborhood.
This inter-relationship is important to recognize and provides an opportunity to evaluate the capacity of caretakers, while emphasizing the important role of owners in their neighborhoods. Many caretakers are also asked to undertake minor maintenance repairs, tenant liaising, rent collection and other duties as per their job description. In some instances though, caretakers require support, both in terms of training to undertake their duties professionally and support to deal with the numerous social issues they often face carrying out their activities.
Training will play a role in ensuring quality control, as well as hopefully minimizing the costs to the owners. A well-managed building translates into savings for the owner, which could be re-invested into the building through improvements, resulting in an increased quality of life for tenants, greater investment returns for owners and improved neighborhood conditions.
Editor's Note: discussion with the various stakeholders, such as the WHRC andd the West Broadway Neighborhood Housing Resource Centre are ongoing.