Tips when renting in Brisbane
December, January and February are a busy time when renting in Brisbane. A lot of properties become available in these months and renters have many to choose from. With so much choice it can be tricky to find the right property. That’s why it’s so important to ensure you are ready to act when you do find that dream property. It’s also important to know what to be wary of when renting in Brisbane. Here’s our tips on what to watch out for and to help you ensure that your rental application and tenancy go well.
Tips when renting in Brisbane
Tip 1 – make sure that everyone who will be living at the property is listed on the lease. This is important as it ensures each of you are liable for the costs of living at the property. If someone is not listed on the lease it can make it almost impossible for you to hold them liable for their share of rent, utilities and other expenses associated with living together.
Tip 2 – have you application documents ready to go when looking for a new home. Having these documents ready to go will mean you can submit your application very quickly when you come across a property you want. This can help get your application over the line and approved first. Application documents you’ll need when renting in Brisbane include – identification documents, employment status and references, income summary, and rental references.
Tip 3 – make sure you and your fellow tenants can comfortably afford the weekly rental costs as well as the upfront bond. If you’re not sure about these costs, have a read through our Renting in Brisbane FAQs article for more information.
Tip 4 – it is generally easier to live with people you know. Tenants who live in a share house with friends or relatives generally have a better chance of a longer tenancy than those tenants who live with strangers.
Tip 5 – make sure you are signing a lease with a reputable agent and that the terms & conditions attached to the lease are reasonable. Things to watch out for are whether pets are allowed, and who will be responsible for garden maintenance. We strongly advise against verbal arrangements with regards to renting in Brisbane. Reputable agents should always use a written lease. A key determinant when trying to learn if the agent is reputable is to ask them if they are a member of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ). All reputable agents should be a member of the REIQ.
Tip 6 – take out insurance to ensure that if anything goes wrong, your belongings are protected.
Tip 7 -fill in an Entry Condition Report (ECR) on the day you move in to the property. The ECR records the general condition of the property at the point in time when you move in. It’s important that you carefully check the ECR and make sure it includes all existing damage or issues with the property (e.g. marks on the walls, or runs in the carpet etc.). It’s a good idea to take photos of the property before you move in. Keep a copy for yourself and provide a copy to your agent. It’s important to note that the entry condition report can be used as evidence if there is a dispute about who should pay for cleaning, damage or replacement of missing items at the end of the agreement –so make sure you review it and are happy with it.
Checklist to help ensure you find a great home when renting in Brisbane
- Always try to inspect the property in person.
- Ask the agent plenty of questions about the property.
- Read through the lease and the attached terms & conditions carefully. Ask the agent any questions about this if you have any before signing.
- Make sure you can afford the weekly rent and the upfront bond.
- Choose your housemates carefully.
- Make sure every adult living at the property is listed on the lease.
- Complete an Entry Condition Report on the day you move in to record the state of the property.
And finally a hot tip for Brisbane landlords:
Speak to your Property Manager about ensuring your property’s lease doesn’t expire in December, January or February. These months typically see a lot of properties available for rent and this can make it difficult to find tenants who have so many options.
