Guide to Renting

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Inspections

Be on time! Real Estate Agents are generally very busy people; holding inspections or an open house can be quite stressful and involved – as a general courtesy rule, don’t leave your agent waiting.

Presentation and Attitude. Reputable Real Estate Agents have thorough Renter screening processes in place – it’s important that you show your agent that you’re taking the process seriously. Look presentable, be pleasant, honest, charming, and desirable – Rental Providers are looking for people that will look after their property and pay their rent on time – it’s important to highlight all those things that make you an attractive tenant. 

Applications

Have the correct documentation ready and available. The Real Estate Agent you’re liaising with should provide you with a list of documents required, including but not limited to references, completed application form, pay slips/proof of employment, and photo ID. You’ll need to have copies of these ready and certified to avoid any delay with your application, including documents for your housemates and/or spouse.

Follow-up. If you haven’t heard anything back from the Agent representing a Property you’ve applied for within 2-3 days, follow up with them. It will highlight your interest in the Property and give you the chance to offer any additional information that might get your application over the line. A pleasant message from you might just get your name to the top of the list.

Leases

Leases are legally binding contracts between yourself and the Residential Rental Provider that defines terms such as the agreed rental period, weekly/monthly rent amount, and what your responsibilities are. Signing the lease indicates that you agree to everything outlined in the document. Ensure you read it thoroughly; a breach of the conditions can result in the Residential Rental Provider having the right to evict you, or a financial loss.

Know your rights

If you are named on the lease, you are entitled to certain rights. For example, Landlords can’t breach your right to privacy by turning up at the house unannounced.

Different states in Australia may have different laws when it comes to Tenants’ Rights – ensure you research your state for the correct information.

Bond

A rental bond, generally the equivalent of a calendar month’s rent, is required to provide financial security for the Landlord, payable by the Tenant prior to moving into the agreed Rental Property. Essentially, the bond is designed to cover any breaches in the terms of the lease; damage to the property, rent arrears, and other costs.

The bond money is held by a regulatory body (in Victoria it is deposited with Residential Tenancies Bond Authority) until the time it can be claimed, which is generally the end of the agreed tenancy period. If by the end of the lease the property is damaged, unclean beyond general wear and tear, or you have rent arrears, the Residential Rental Provider is within their rights to claim reasonable costs from your bond.

Repairs and Maintenance

Renters are responsible for keeping the Property they lease clean and undamaged, whereas Residential Rental Provider, or the Property Manager, are responsible for keeping the property in a good, livable condition.

General and Emergency repairs need to be organised by your agent. If problems aren’t fixed within a reasonable amount of time, you may have the right to seek compensation or end your tenancy without penalty.

Always ask permission

If you want to make minor changes to the property, such as painting walls, or have decided to get a pet, ensure you contact your Property Manager or Residential Rental Provider; your lease should generally state what you can and cannot do without permission, and a breach of these terms could result in penalty or eviction.

For more information – Guide for Tenants

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