Check List for Renters

Make sure you have:

  • understood every part of the lease if not ask questions and get the answers your need before you sign
  • discussed issues which may not be included in the lease, such as, the landlord's policy on pets
  • check who is responsible for utilities, gardening, mowing or general maintenance
  • confirmed there are internet and telephone line connections to the property
  • agreed what changes to the property allowed to make cosmetic or minor but not adding extra power points or TV co-axial points, the landlord must be notified and can say no to the major change
  • agreed there is no obligation for the landlord to contribute to the cost of any minor changes
  • received a copy of  Renting a home, apartment or property guide for tenants
  • a signed (by the owner/landlord) copy of your lease (tenancy agreement) within 14 days of you signing your copy and sent it to the property owner
  • two copies of the premises condition report, one filled out by the owner and one to be filled out by you and returned to the property owner
  • a copy of the owners corporation rules (if applicable)
  • received a bond lodgement form for you to sign, so the bond money can be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) in your State
  • details of whether you or the agent can authorise urgent repairs, and the maximum amount that is authorise
  • received an emergency phone number you can use to contact the landlord or agent out of business hours for urgent repairs
  • the landlord's or agent's full name, a postal address for sending them documents, and an email address and they have consented to receive notices and other documents this way via electronic mail
  • received two sets of keys for all door and window locks at the house, apartment, unit or property
  • confirmation that all utilities are connected and working
  • advised the post office and your friends of your change of address and phone number
  • notified authorities of change of address, your employer, passport office, drivers licence, bank etc.