From an episode of Byte Into ITPresented by Dan Salmon and Lilly Ryan

Interview

Byte Into IT: Jordie van den Berg, aka Purplepingers on shitrentals.org

Jordie van den Berg, aka Purplepingers, established the website shitrentals.org for renters to share their experiences with rental properties, landlords, and real estate agents, which he says is a cathartic experience for many people who've had exploitative experiences. He joins Lilly and Dan to talk about why he set up the site: for people to share their stories where they've otherwise been unheard (in an online space where people can't pay to have bad reviews removed) and for there to be more accountability. The three talk about the importance of collective action; noting how many unions have formed to address a deeply unequal housing system.

He also gives some advice to renters: keep receipts of everything (including documenting interactions with real estate agents) in case you ever have to go to VCAT with evidence. He also mentions other organisations that can support people: Tenants Victoria, Anika Legal, Renters and Housing Union (RAHU), and community legal centres.

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Listen to Byte Into IT: Jordie van den Berg, aka Purplepingers on shitrentals.org17:1925 October 2023