Advice for Tenants: What a Tenant Should Ask Before Signing a Lease

Finding the perfect property to rent is a very exciting time, but for some tenants, they’d wished they asked more questions first.

Thought Leaders Real Estate have compiled a list of the most common questions tenants should ask when finding the right property for them.

At Thought Leaders, we’re property management Perth specialists who don’t just care about the landlord, we care about the tenants, too!

Is your question on here? Perhaps we’ll get you thinking about questions you hadn’t considered yet?

Read on to find out more.

First thing’s first – what do I need to know about the property?

As a prospective tenant, you should definitely take your time looking over a property, and not just perform a skim assessment.

Don’t be afraid to take a good look and ask all the questions, like:

·         What security measures are in place? Locks, lights, working smoke alarms, etc.?

·         Are the appliances in safe and working order?

·         Is there any evidence of leaks, mould or pests?

Not every property is perfect, it’s still essential that any tenant is well-informed before signing a lease.

How many people are on the lease?

Many first-time renters don’t move out alone. It’s essential to be aware of who is on the lease.

For example, you could sign the lease as co-tenants, meaning everyone who lives there is on the lease, and everyone is equally liable for any potential property damage.

What’s included on the lease?

With separate metering, tenants need to budget for the lease itself, not inclusive of utilities like electricity, gas, phone, internet and water.

If there’s no separate metering, a written agreement is needed on how all utilities are going to be calculated and paid for.

What are my rights as a pet-owning tenant?

Communication and negotiation is key when it comes to bringing your pet-friend with you in a rental.

A pet bond (maximum of $260) may be required, which may be used to fumigate the rental if your pet is prone to fleas, ticks or other parasites.

Who covers repair costs, and can a landlord enter the property?

Landlords are generally required to pay repair costs, unless the damage was deliberately caused by the tenant. Communication is key when it comes to property management in Perth, and between landlord and tenant(s).

Landlords are also allowed to enter the property AFTER giving you notice (unless it’s an emergency) and can conduct up to four routine inspections in any 12-month period.

What about a bond?

A security bond is a deposit given to the landlord when you start living in the rental property.

It’s a maximum of 4-weeks rent, and at the end of your lease, will be returned to you if no damage or outstanding bills were incurred.

Talk to a property management Perth team to discuss your rights and responsibilities when it comes to a security bond.

Helping tenants with Perth property management

Thought Leaders Real Estate specialise in more than just property investment in Perth.

We’re here to help both tenant and landlord, securing and advising with any property management queries that may arise.

Need help with finding the right rental property for you?  

Contact Thought Leaders today to see how a property management Perth team will help you secure and enjoy the rental of your dreams.