Clarity Before Commitment
Most rental problems are not discovered during inspection.
They are discovered after you move in.
BeforeYouRent created this guide to help you identify risks early, ask better questions, and protect yourself throughout your tenancy journey.
This guide provides general information for renters in Australia. It is not legal advice.
Before You Inspect
Photos show the presentation. Inspections reveal reality.
Do not rush. Do not feel pressured. Observe carefully.
Questions to Ask the Agent
Ask directly, do not hesitate.
- How long has this property been on the market?
- Why did the previous tenant leave?
- Have there been any recurring maintenance issues?
- Has the property experienced mould, leaks, or water damage?
- Are utilities separately metered, and which providers are accepted?
- Are there upcoming strata works or major repairs planned?
Silence or vague answers are information.
What to Physically Check
Inside the Property
- Mould on ceilings, wardrobes, bathrooms
- Water pressure (turn taps on fully)
- Sink drainage speed
- Wall or ceiling cracks
- Power points (test with a charger)
- Windows and door locks
- Pest evidence
- Ventilation in bathrooms and laundry
Outside / Structural
- Roof condition
- Signs of water pooling
- Damp smells
- Rusting balconies or railings
- Poorly maintained gutters
Small signs often indicate larger problems.
Strata / Building Red Flags
- Repeated lift breakdowns
- Noticeboards filled with complaints
- Visible structural cracking
- Poorly maintained common areas
- Ongoing building defects discussions
If the building looks tired, maintenance may be reactive - not proactive.
Before You Sign
A lease is a legal commitment. Review carefully.
Lease Clauses to Review
- Lease duration
- Rent increase terms
- Notice periods
- Repair and maintenance responsibilities
- Pet policies
- Subletting rules
Never rely on verbal assurances.
If it is not written, it is not guaranteed.
Bond Process
- Confirm bond lodgement with the official state authority
- Keep written confirmation
- Save all payment receipts
Failure to properly lodge bond is a red flag.
Special Conditions
Read every additional clause carefully.
Watch for:
- Mandatory professional carpet cleaning
- Excessive cleaning requirements
- Garden maintenance obligations
- Restrictions not disclosed earlier
Question anything that seems unreasonable.
Understand Break Lease Costs
Before signing, know:
- Notice period required
- Break fees
- Reletting costs
- Any ongoing rent liability
During Tenancy
Keep Everything in Writing
Protect yourself by:
- Reporting issues by email where possible
- Keeping dated photos
- Saving inspection reports and repair requests
- Storing lease and bond documents safely
Know Your Repair Rights
Urgent repairs often include:
- Electrical faults
- Water leaks
- Gas issues
- Structural hazards
Report problems early and follow up if needed.
Keep a Good Entry Record
When you move in:
- Complete the entry condition report carefully
- Take clear, timestamped photos
- Keep copies of everything
Good records help prevent disputes later.
Before You Leave
Prepare Early
Exit disputes often involve:
- Bond deductions
- Cleaning issues
- Damage claims
Use This Exit Checklist
Before handing back the keys:
- Compare the property to your entry report
- Take final photos
- Finish any agreed repairs
- Keep proof of cleaning
- Finalise utilities
- Apply for your bond refund promptly
The property should usually be returned reasonably clean, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Bond Return Process
- Apply for bond refund promptly
- Ensure utilities are finalised
- Keep proof of cleaning or repairs
Timing matters.
Cleaning Standards
The property must be returned reasonably clean, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Focus on:
- Kitchen appliances
- Bathrooms
- Windows
- Carpets (if required under lease)
Do not accept unreasonable cleaning demands without written justification.
Your Rights as a Renter
Your rights vary by state, but generally include:
- A safe and habitable property
- Reasonable privacy
- Proper notice for inspections
- Proper notice for rent increases
- Protection from unfair treatment or eviction
Always check your state or territory rules for exact requirements.
Useful Resources (Australia)
Official Government Rental Authorities
New South Wales (NSW)
- NSW Fair Trading - https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/renting-a-place-to-live
- NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) - https://www.ncat.nsw.gov.au
Victoria (VIC)
- Consumer Affairs Victoria - https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting
- Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) - https://www.vcat.vic.gov.au
Queensland (QLD)
- Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) - https://www.rta.qld.gov.au
- Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) - https://www.qcat.qld.gov.au
Western Australia (WA)
- Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (Consumer Protection - Renting) - https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumer-protection/renting-home
- State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) - https://www.sat.justice.wa.gov.au
South Australia (SA)
- Consumer and Business Services (CBS) - https://www.cbs.sa.gov.au/campaigns/renting
- South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) - https://www.sacat.sa.gov.au
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- ACT Renting Information - https://www.act.gov.au/housing/renting
- ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) - https://www.acat.act.gov.au
Tasmania (TAS)
- Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) - https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au/topics/housing/renting
- Residential Tenancy Commissioner / Tribunal - https://www.magistratescourt.tas.gov.au/about_us/divisions/residential_tenancy
Northern Territory (NT)
- NT Consumer Affairs (Renting) - https://consumeraffairs.nt.gov.au/for-consumers/residential-tenancies
- NT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT) - https://ntcat.nt.gov.au
“Visit our FAQs for short answers on renting and using BeforeYouRent.”
“This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. BeforeYouRent does not guarantee completeness or accuracy. Always verify details with official sources before making rental decisions.”