How much bond do you take from the tenant?

The Residential Tenancies Act permits a maximum bond of up to four weeks rent and this is increasingly our standard bond. Our minimum accepted bond is three weeks.

When do you pay back the bond?

We only refund the tenant’s bond after the following has occurred:

  • The tenant has fully vacated the property and keys have been returned.
  • The property has been inspected and is satisfactory when compared with the commencement inspection report.
  • All monies are paid including any outstanding rent, water or any other amount owed by the tenant.

What does the tenancy agreement include?

We will prepare a Tenancy Agreement covering the details of the tenancy, with comprehensive terms and conditions. Before we get the tenant to sign it, we go through the important expectations with them. For example, how they must pay their rent on time, where to pay their rent and what we do if they do not pay their rent. We discuss our repairs and maintenance policy, what happens in an emergency repair situation, how often inspections occur and what we look for.We provide them with a copy of the Tenancy Agreement, explain where the bond is lodged and get them to sign the Bond Lodgement Form. We also give them a Tenant Kit which contains extensive information designed to support a trouble-free tenancy.

When do they get keys and possession of the property?

We ensure all forms have been explained and signed, all bond monies are collected and the first payment of rent is received. We then conduct a commencement inspection, take photos and read the water meter. The tenant will receive a copy of the commencement inspection report, which is signed by both parties. Only then will we provide the tenant with keys and possession of the property.

What happens if I wish to sell my property?

You may sell your property at any time, however written notice must be given to the tenant of this intention.

Any fixed term lease in place is guaranteed to your tenant. This means if a person buys your property and they wish to occupy it, they must wait until the tenancy is finished, unless the tenant agrees otherwise. In the case of a periodic tenancy the tenant must be given 42 days notice to vacate, from the time of the sale contract becoming unconditional.

What if I want to move in or someone from my family wants to move in?

Any fixed term lease is guaranteed to the tenant unless they agree to move out. In the case of a periodic tenancy, 42 days notice is required. Please note that the Tribunal has held that a Family
Trust requires 90 days notice.

Can you help me sell my property?

Of course! Please contact your property manager and we will recommend a sales agent from one of our preferred Sales Agency Partnerships.

Who decides if a fixed term lease will be renewed?

If required, we will contact you before the lease is due, and seek instruction on whether you wish to renew the lease. Once we have your approval, we will approach the tenant to have the lease renewed.

Do I have to give a reason if I don’t want to renew?

If you do not wish the lease to be renewed, you are not obligated to give your tenant a reason. However, as a courtesy, we recommend doing so.

What happens if the tenant breaks any tenancy conditions?

Our course of action will depend largely on what has occurred. If the breach is minor, approaching the tenant verbally or in writing may be appropriate. If the breach is serious, we will consult with you first to discuss what action to take.

Serious breaches of tenancy may involve using the property for illegal purposes or bringing in pets without prior permission. We will let you know whether we recommend serving a 90 day termination notice on the tenant or using more diplomatic means to rectify the breach.