Renting a Flat or House in Australia

Security Deposits & Bond

The owner or agent of an owner who has the right to rent out a property is called a landlord. A landlord will ask you for money before you move into an apartment. This is called a security deposit or bond, and may amount to more than AU$1,000 dollars. The bond is usually set at four weeks rent. A bond & "security deposit" is an amount of money that is supposed to guarantee that the tenant will care for the property. If the tenant does not care for the property or clean it before return, the tenant could loose some money from the security deposit after moving out.

Signing a Lease

In most cases, the landlord will require the tenant to sign a lease. A lease is a written agreement between a tenant and a landlord that describes the responsibilities of each party. This is a binding legal document that commits the student to a specific period of residency in the unit.

Property Inspection

Most landlords will inspect the property with you on commencement of your tenancy. This is done with a list of furniture and fittings in each room of the property so that the two of you can agree on the condition of the property at the commencement of the tenancy. You should note on this document anything you notice during the inspection that is not already listed, and keep a copy that responsibility. This will be done again at the end of your tenancy and the final condition of the property may determine the return of your full security deposit. 
If this inspection is not suggested, you might suggest it yourself as a means of ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved.
Restrictions
The lease may contain restrictions, such as not permitting animals or children in the dwelling. Ask the landlord about his/her particular requirements. Make sure that you know and understand these restrictions before signing the lease. If you do not obey the restrictions on the lease, the landlord can ask you to leave. 

Inspecting a Potential Property

It is a good idea to take notes of each property you inspect. As well as the details about the property such as:

- Are there laundry facilities?
- Is there an insect / pest problem?
- Will the landlord carry out any repairs 
  before you move in?

- Do the light fittings work?
- Is there good security?
- How are repairs made once you live there,
   and who pays for which repairs?

Smoke Alarms

Some alarms are devices that detect smoke and sound an alarm. Some alarms alert and wake people allowing valuable time to get out of a house during a fire. When you go to sleep, your sense of smell also goes to sleep. If there is a fire, toxic fumes may overcome you before you wake up. For your protection, a smoke alarm must be installed in your home.

Contents Insurance

It is recommended that if you are in a rental property that you obtain Contents Insurance for your belongings. This is a form of house insurance that insures the contents of the house. Landlords will usually have House Insurance but your belongings will not be covered. Contents Insurance will replace you belongings if your house is robbed and your belongings are damaged or stolen, or you have a house fire and your belongings are destroyed or damaged. This may cost you up to $200 per year depending on the value of your belongings.

Where to find help

NSW: The Tenants Union of NSW, http://www.tenants.org.au/
Victoria: The Tenants Union of Victoria, http://www.tuv.org.au/
Consumer Affairs Victoria: http://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/
Queensland: http://www.tuq.org.au/
SA: www.ocba.sa.gov.au/tenancies
TAS: http://www.tutas.org.au/
WA: http://www.taswa.org/
ACT: http://www.tenantsact.org.au/

---

    Get In Touch

     Leave your message and we'll get back to you shortly.