Tenants - Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to view the property before making an application?
How do I complete the application form?
When do I need to pay rent and bond?
How do I report maintenance and other issues during my tenancy?
Can I rent if I have a pet?

Do I have to view the property before making an application?

Generally, it is preferable for you to view your ideal property before submitting an application form. This ensures that the property is suitable for your requirements and in a condition that you are happy with.

If you are unable to view your ideal property personally, we would recommend that a trusted friend or relative do so on your behalf if possible. Alternatively we can arrange for detailed images of each room within the property to be emailed to you.

How do I complete the application form?

Our application form is available online for your convenience. [ click here ]

To help you complete our rental application form, we have outlined some easy guidelines for you:

• Please ensure that you fill in each section of the Tenancy Application Form thoroughly. If a section does not apply to you, please tell us why.
• Please ensure that you have signed the privacy statement.
• If you are supported by Austudy, Centrelink or similar, please provide a statement that confirms your income details.
• If your rental payments are to be made by others, we require a letter from the guarantor stating this. This letter must be signed and dated by the guarantor .
• If you own your own property and have not recently rented, if ever, please provide us with a council rate notice or a copy of the title of your home. Alternatively if you are selling or have sold your property, please provide us with the details of the selling agent.
• An application must be completed by each person wishing to occupy the premises.

Any additional documentation relating to your application can be faxed to us on (03) 9439 3347.

We will always contact you to confirm that we have received your application and to request any further information if necessary.  Provided that your nominated references can be contacted promptly, you will be advised of the landlords' response within two business days of our office receiving your application.

Once your application is approved, a letter of confirmation will be provided to you by email, outlining the details of your tenancy and payments required.

When do I need to pay rent and bond?

You will be required to pay an amount equal to one months rental upon signing the lease for your new property. This is usually done within 24 - 48 hours of your tenancy application being approved by the owner of the property. The bond is payable upon commencement of the tenancy or earlier if you prefer.

We offer a personal appointment time to discuss the leasing paperwork, to ensure that you are completely informed prior to signing all documentation.

How do I report maintenance and other issues during my tenancy?

A detailed form is available on our website for you to report any non urgent maintenance items for your property. [ click here ]

Alternatively you may use your individual access code to report your maintenance query online, via www.onlineagent.com.au

Our regular inspections of the rented premises are also an ideal time to raise any minor maintenance or repair issues. These are conducted, with appropriate notice to you, after the first three months of a new tenancy and every six months thereafter. We welcome you to be present during these inspections.

If you have an repair which is deemed urgent, as outlined in your statement of rights and responsibilities, please contact our office immediately by telephone on 1300 367 747 and we will address this as soon as possible on your behalf.

Other issues may be discussed via email, fax or telephone - we are here to assist you wherever possible with any queries relating to your tenancy.

Can I rent if I have a pet?

In Australia, more than two thirds of households own pets which means we boast the highest incidence of pet ownership per household of any country in the world. But finding pet friendly rental accomodation, be it a house, unit or apartment is not always easy.

Moving house and the challenges of finding a landlord who will accept pets is one of the main reasons why pet owners relinquish their pets to animal shelters. Across the country, residential tenancy agreements either do not mention keeping pets or state that written consent is required from the landlord before pets are allowed in rental properties.

Landlords are generally less flexible in regards to pets because of negative past experiences, or the belief that animals will cause pest infestations, damage to the property and carpets, or even cause noise issues with neighbours.

However, by showing that these sorts of problems can be entirely avoided, you stand a very good chance of negotiating with a landlord to allow your pet/s to move in. And remember, it is generally regarded that responsible pet owners make responsible tenants.

Create a pet resume

If you are a tenant or intend to rent and you are a pet owner, create a pet resume as soon as possible. This can include copies of puppy pre-school and dog training certificates and vaccination and desexing certificates. All these documents show that you are a responsible pet owner. In addtion, if you have rented with pets, ask your previous or existing landlord for a reference specifically for your animals.

Lastly by being a good pet owning tenant, you will make it much easier for the next person who rents the premises.

Would you like to discuss your property management requirements? Click here

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