You can compare the asking rent with similar properties in the same suburb, including size, condition, and features. It's also worth checking suburb median rents and recent listings to see what the local market looks like. Rent increase rules and frequency vary by state, so see our Renting Resources section for more information
Landlords may need to disclose important facts about the property, such as whether it is for sale, affected by legal or strata issues, or subject to restrictions that could affect your tenancy. Disclosure requirements vary by state, so it is important to check the rules that apply where you are renting. You can find more detail and official links in our Renting Resources section.
At the start of a tenancy, you should usually receive a written tenancy agreement, a condition report, and confirmation that your bond has been lodged correctly. You should also keep records of rent payments, receipts, and any emails or notices from the agent or landlord. These documents are important if questions or disputes come up later.
The landlord is generally responsible for keeping the property safe, reasonably clean, and in a livable condition, including fixing urgent repairs. Tenants are usually responsible for reporting issues promptly, taking reasonable care of the property, and avoiding damage.
No. In most cases, a landlord or agent must give proper notice before entering the property and can only do so for specific reasons allowed by law, such as inspections, repairs, or showing the property to others. The amount of notice and how often inspections can happen depends on your state, so check our Renting Resources page for official links.
Your bond should be lodged with the relevant government authority, not kept privately by the landlord or agent. At the end of the tenancy, it should be returned if the property is left reasonably clean and there is no unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear. To protect yourself, keep your condition report, photos, and cleaning records.
You should give written notice and follow the notice period required under your agreement or state law. The correct process can depend on whether you are ending a fixed-term lease, a periodic lease, or leaving early.
Start by raising the issue clearly in writing and keeping copies of all communication, photos, and documents. If the matter is not resolved, you may be able to get help from your state's Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs, or tenancy authority before applying to a tribunal.
The best place to get official renting information is through your state or territory's government tenancy authority, such as Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs, or the Residential Tenancies Authority. These sites provide guides, forms, notice rules, and dispute information. We've gathered the key links for each state in our Renting Resources section.
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