The things to check before signing a lease.

Finding a rental property you love can be exciting but before signing a lease and collecting the keys, it’s worth taking the time to understand exactly what you’re agreeing to.

From rent and bond to pets, repairs and access to the property, there are rules around what a landlord or property manager can ask of a renter. At the same time, renters have responsibilities throughout the lease.

While the basic principles are similar across Australia, residential tenancy laws vary between states and territories, so it’s important to check the rules that apply where you live.

Here are some of the key things to consider before signing a lease.

Understand the costs.

Before signing, make sure you understand exactly what you’ll need to pay and when. This may include rent in advance, a rental bond and, depending on the property and location, other permitted costs. The amount that can be charged and how a bond is held or lodged is regulated by state and territory legislation.

Ask for a clear breakdown of the upfront costs and make sure you understand when future rent payments are due. Keep records of payments and any documentation relating to your bond. It’s also worth checking whether utilities are included in the rent or whether you’ll need to arrange and pay for them separately.

Know the rules around pets.

If you have a pet, don’t assume a property advertised as ‘no pets’ is automatically off limits. Rules around pets have changed in several states and territories, and they do differ across Australia.

Depending on where you live, a landlord may need to consider a renter’s request to keep a pet and may only be able to refuse it on specific grounds. Conditions may also apply.

If you already have a pet or are considering getting one, check the rules in your state or territory before signing the lease. It’s much easier to understand the process upfront than discover later that approval is required.

Read the entire lease.

A rental agreement is a legally binding document, so don’t focus only on the rent and lease term. Make sure you read the entire agreement and pay particular attention to conditions relating to pets, gardens and pools, maintenance, alterations, parking, smoking, subletting and the use of common areas. Additional conditions must comply with the relevant rental legislation. If something is unclear or you’re unsure about a particular requirement, ask the property manager to explain it before signing.

“Tenancy issues are much easier to avoid when expectations are clear from the beginning. I always encourage tenants to read through the lease carefully, ask questions if they’re unsure about anything and make sure the condition report accurately reflects the property when they move in. Good communication at the start sets up a much smoother tenancy for everyone,” says Julie Elder, Hockingstuart Preston | Reservoir Senior Property Manager.

Understand who handles repairs.

Knowing what you’re responsible for as a renter and what sits with the landlord can save confusion later. Generally, landlords are responsible for ensuring a rental property is safe, fit to live in and properly maintained. Tenants are expected to keep the property reasonably clean, avoid causing damage and report maintenance issues promptly.

The exact responsibilities can vary. Gardens, pools, appliances and other inclusions may be dealt with differently depending on the property and the terms of the agreement. Before signing, ask whether there are any specific maintenance responsibilities you’ll need to take on. If you’re renting a home with a pool or established garden, for example, make sure you know who is responsible for ongoing care.

Check the condition report.

The condition report is one of the most important documents you’ll receive at the beginning of a tenancy. Take the time to inspect the property carefully and make sure the report accurately records its condition. Look at walls, floors, carpets, windows, appliances, outdoor areas and fittings. Take your own dated photographs or video as a record and make sure any existing damage or wear is documented.

It’s a simple step, but having a clear record of the property’s condition when you move in can help avoid disagreements when your lease ends.

Look beyond the property itself.

Before committing, think about how the property will work for your day-to-day life.Check parking, storage, bin arrangements, internet availability and any other practical considerations. If you’re renting an apartment or townhouse, ask whether strata or community rules apply and make sure you understand any restrictions around noise, parking, pets or shared facilities.

It’s also worth asking whether there are any planned repairs or maintenance works that could affect your tenancy.

Know your rights and responsibilities.

A lease is a two-way agreement. Tenants have obligations, but landlords and property managers also have responsibilities around matters such as repairs, privacy, property condition and access.

Rules around rent increases, property inspections, ending a tenancy and resolving disputes vary between states and territories, so check the relevant government tenancy authority if you’re unsure about your rights or obligations.

“A little preparation before signing can go a long way. Read the lease carefully, ask questions, document the property’s condition and make sure you understand what you’ll be responsible for,” Julie says. Adding, “Your property manager is there for your support and to provide guidance where required. Prompt reporting of maintenance or damage is essential in order to have repairs completed in a timely manner and address any issues.”

Clear expectations from the beginning can help create a positive relationship between renter, property manager and landlord throughout the tenancy.

Your local Hockingstuart Property Management team is here to support you with all your property management needs.

If you have any questions or need advice, reach out to the team today. We’re always happy to help.