When you’re renting for the first time it can feel like there’s a lot to learn and understand. Because you’re signing a contract to live in a property that someone else owns (a Rental Agreement), you can’t do things in the same way as you would if you owned the property. You have certain responsibilities – but you also have rights.

To help you navigate this terrain, we’ve put together our top 4 tips.

Renting is a relationship between you and the Residential Rental Provider (RRP)

Signing an agreement means that you’re entering into a contract with the Residential Rental Provider, meaning it is a contractual relationship, one with certain legal boundaries that are designed to protect the Residential Rental Provider’s interests, as well as yours as a Renter.

You might have heard about or experienced situations where one party seems to have more rights than the other. Rental relationships are constantly being defined and redefined by groups who advocate for the interests of each party. But don’t let this intimidate you! To get the most out of your tenancy, you simply need to understand the terms of the agreement you’re entering into and what your responsibilities and rights are under that agreement.

Read your Rental Agreement

Your first go-to place is your Rental Agreement. Most of the time, rental agreements are a mixture of stock standard components – such as rental terms that are required to be in all rental agreements by law, and any special conditions that are individualised to your Residential Rental Provider and the property that you are renting.

This is a document that you’ll need to read over a few times until you get familiar with it. It’s also a good idea to pull it out and revise it whenever something arises with your tenancy – for example, if you need emergency plumbing or electrical repairs, many Rental Agreements will state the individual tradesman or company you need to contact for this.

If you are unsure about any aspect of your Rental Agreement, make sure you talk to your agent or local tenancy advice service. There are a lot of resources online available online that will help you with any questions.

Know your responsibilities

Your responsibilities tend to be outlined exhaustively in your Rental Agreement. Many of your responsibilities will be common things like keeping the property in good condition. Ensure you know and understand your responsibilities under the Rental Agreement. It is important, so read it closely.

Know your rights

As a Renter, you also have rights; some of which may be included in your Rental Agreement. They include things like notice periods that Residential Rental Providers have to give you before increasing the rent, conducting inspections of the property, conditions for the Residential Rental Provider completing necessary repairs to the property, and any requirements to fulfil basic living conditions.

Details about your rights vary depending on where you live. To find out more information, contact your Property Manager or the Consumer Affairs website – as they have plenty of Q & A’s and information easily accessible.

Now that you have some knowledge about the fundamentals of renting, you’re ready to make the most of your life as a Renter. Happy renting!