Transparency: tenants and rental contracts

So, you’ve found a rental property that meets all your needs and more! Better yet, your rental application has been received, processed and accepted.

It’s time to do a happy dance. From here, you need to read and sign the dotted line of your tenancy agreement (aka rental contract). Yet, what is entailed exactly when you do so?

Are you a current or prospective tenant? Let’s clear the murky waters and encourage transparency.

Read more from Thought Leaders Real Estate on what you should know about rental contracts.

Defining rental contracts

A rental contract/tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between tenants and their landlord. It gives the tenant the right to live in and enjoy the rental property in exchange for paying rent.

Within the contract is the outlined conditions, which set the rights and responsibilities for both tenants and landlords out clear, in full.

For example, it should outline:

·         Whether the lease is fixed term or on a periodic agreement

·         How much rent is to be paid and how often

·         Whether garden upkeep and maintenance are the responsibility of the tenant or landlord.

Enlisting the services of a Perth property management company helps tenants and landlords understand their rights and obligations to one another.

Are tenant rights listed within a rental contract?

Yes! Rental contracts aside, residential tenancies within Western Australia are subject to tenant rights within the Residential Tenancies Act.

So, what are they?

·         Being provided a clean property to move into.

·         Adequate security and a working smoke alarm within the property.

·         Receiving your own copy of the tenancy agreement, plus the ‘Information for Tenant’ form provided to you at the beginning of the lease.

·         Your bond safely deposited with the State Government’s Bond Administrator.

·         Be given 7-14 days’ notice of a rental inspection and 72 hours’ notice of access required for repairs (unless urgent repairs).

·         Given 60 days’ notice of an intended rent increase.

·         Maintenance and repairs carried out within a reasonable timeframe and organised by the landlord or Perth property manager. Be aware though of being liable for the cost if the damage is your fault.

·         Quiet and full enjoyment of the rental property throughout your tenancy lease period.

If you’re concerned about any of the above. Contact your Perth property manager for expert advice. Keep reading to learn what happens when a rental contract is breached.

Breaching a rental contract

It’s strongly advised to not breach a rental contract. Why? Because it’s a legally binding contract and doing so can lead to serious consequences, if either party does so.

What are some examples of breaching a rental agreement?

·         Breaking a fixed-term lease

·         Not paying the rent

·         Keeping a pet when not allowed

·         Sub-letting the property when not allowed

·         Not keeping the home reasonably clean and/or damaging the property

·         Causing a nuisance to the neighbours

·         Using the home for business purposes without landlord approval or using the home for illegal activities

·         Failure to maintain the garden(s) if clearly outlined as a requirement within the contract.

It’s utterly important to read the fine print and scrutinise your rental contract before signing.

A Perth property manager is the third party you could benefit from during your lease period.

Looking for professional and proactive property management in Perth?

Contact Thought Leaders Real Estate today for transparent property management services you can trust.