Tenants are well protected in Australia with legislation in place to keep deposits safe and ensure a good standard of living. Here are top ten tips to renting in Australia, including your rights and obligations as a tenant.
Do not transfer money to secure your rental accommodation unless it's arranged by a trusted person or required by your university. There are many fraudsters on classifieds websites preying on international students.
Inspect the property before entering into a leasing agreement as pictures can be misleading.
Amenities (such as eateries, supermarkets and police stations) and transportation links are important factors to consider when selecting your accommodation, especially if you do not drive.
Even if you did not engage a property agent in your leasing agreement with a private homeowner, you are still protected by the tenancy legislation in your Australian state. If there's a dispute between you and your landlord, you could check with your school's international students department for free legal and housing advice.
If you're entering into a contract with a private owner, make sure you understand your obligations as a tenant and that any housemates are included as co-tenants. Your landlord must present a record of the condition of the apartment as part of the lease contract. You are required to maintain the apartment’s condition and cleanliness.
Your landlord is not permitted to enter your rented property without your permission.
Your landlord is required to ensure that your rented apartment is vacant, cleaned and in an acceptable condition before you move in.
If renting a private apartment, you are liable to hire a professional carpet cleaning company to shampoo the apartment's carpet before you move out. Keep the receipt as proof of engaging the cleaning company.
A deposit of one month's rental is required by the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority as a security bond against damage to the apartment or furniture.
Your landlord must give you ample notice, and vice versa, if the apartment needs to be vacated. The expected notice period should be agreed and included in the tenancy contract.
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