As part of her research into starting a real estate agency, Susan recently paid Expert Property Analysts Pty Ltd (EPA) to write her a report outlining the trends in property values over the past 5 years in the western suburbs of Brisbane.

Susan wanted to review the trends as part of her decision regarding whether or not to start her new real estate business. EPA wrote a report for Susan which set out the very positive trends concerning the consistent increase in property values over the past 5 years. Although Susan had specifically said to EPA that she wanted the report to assist her to decide whether or not to start her new business, Susan did mention to EPA that she might also show it to a friend who was also thinking about starting up his own real estate agency.

After receiving EPAs report, Susan gave it to her friend, William, who used it in his decision to start his own real estate agency.

Does EPA owe William a duty of care? Justify your answer based on IRAC method.