Nkuli M

Disappointing Experience with Maintenance and Management at Braamfontien Gate

I've been staying at Braamfontein Gate for a while now, and I must say, my experience has been far from satisfactory. The maintenance issues are simply unacceptable. I had to endure a four-month wait for my oven to be repaired, and a two-month wait for a simple sink blockage to be fixed. The toilet doesn't flush properly, and despite reporting it, nothing has been done. It's clear that maintenance is not a priority here. The lifts are constantly breaking down, causing inconvenience and delays. The building manager, Patrick, has shown little concern for these ongoing problems. He's proven to be dishonest and unreliable, making it difficult to trust him with any concerns. One of the most frustrating aspects has been the non-functional goods lift. For over a year, it's been out of service, leaving residents with no option but to pay extra for moving services or struggle with large items up the stairs. Additionally, the entranceways have been cluttered with abandoned furniture, creating an unwelcoming environment. The sliding doors in my unit have been a constant issue, letting in water during rain and allowing cold air to seep in. Despite my repeated complaints and suggestions for resealing them, no action has been taken. Furthermore, I strongly recommend that a detailed walk-through of the entire building is conducted by management to understand the daily challenges residents face. It's evident that these concerns are not being effectively communicated to the head office, as issues continue to persist despite reported resolutions. Additionally, the installation of cameras in the corridors is crucial to deter theft and vandalism. This would not only provide a sense of security but also ensure that those responsible can be tracked and held accountable. Many residents, me included, have expressed interest in transferring to other units, only to be overlooked by building management. It's disheartening to see that their priorities lie in securing new applicants for referral fees, rather than tending to the needs and concerns of current residents. Furthermore, I've referred people to the building on two occasions and have yet to receive the commission I am due. It's also worth noting that the corridors appear to have gone without a fresh coat of paint for what seems like years. The lighting in the gym and studying area is subpar, making it difficult to use these facilities effectively. Despite bringing this up with Patrick, no action has been taken. On a positive note, I've noticed Thabiso, the new building manager, showing more dedication and willingness to address issues. However, it's disheartening that one person seems to be carrying the weight of the entire management team. Lastly, the non-functional TV in the gym adds to the list of disappointments. It's clear that the maintenance and overall resident experience need serious improvement. These concerns are not mine alone but it’s something that many if not all residents have been experiencing. Please may you hear these cries and take action what we are being subjected to is not fair.