Accommodation Tips |
Being a student is the coolest period in our life. You have already finished school, enrolled in a University, College or Academy, and are looking for accommodation options away from home, with students like yourself. At this point, a lot of questions may arise in connection with the search for a room and the signing of a rental contract. Before you sign a rental contract, you need to study your rights and responsibilities. You also need to know that the contract signed by the tenant and the landlord must comply with the legal standards of your state and territory. An agreement between the tenant and the landlord is called a residential tenancy agreement. A careful study of your rights will allow you to avoid the problems associated with renting the premises. You have to study the contract, especially the text in the fine print. You cannot imagine the number of interesting things mentioned there.
Be Ready
You must find a place to live before you start learning, and therefore, you should take time to find suitable accommodation so that you are not distracted once you start studying.
Ask for Advice
Most institutions will have accommodation services and can provide information on a range of accommodation options and their costs.
Read the Contract
A Contract is a long and boring thing. You should read it even if you may not understand everything, especially what is mentioned in the fine print. If you have the opportunity, discuss the terms of the contract with your parents or with people who may understand even a little about what is written in it. Do not sign the agreement without looking at it or after reading it superficially.
Beware of Scams
Be careful when looking for housing; avoid questionable offers. If you are offered accommodation that is much cheaper than anything else in this area, then think twice about it – it could be the work of scammers.
Inspect residence before signing the contract
It's a good idea to make sure that such a home exists. Never shell out money before signing the contract.
Check the accommodation according to the description
Check for a bed, toilet, and shower. Prepare a full inventory. Take your own photos of the rooms and make notes of any faults. An inventory is basically a checklist for both the landlord and the tenants to list any furniture provided by the landlord.
The most important questions when renting |
Am I eligible to get rent assistance?Full-time students who are Australian residents may be eligible for rent assistance. To get more information, go to the Department of Human Services website (opens in a new window). Department of Human Services (Rent Assistance) |
What do I have to know before signing a contract?You must receive from your landlord or agent all documents, such as a tenancy agreement, bond lodgement form, and premises condition report. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (New Tenant Checklist) |
Do I have any privacy rights during a rental tenancy?You have the right to privacy during the rental period. A landlord or agent cannot visit the premises without your consent. Access to housing is possible only in accordance with the lease and your consent. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (Privacy when renting) |
Are there any rules regarding rent increases?The rent may be increased by the landlord on the terms specified in the tenancy agreement and so long as 60 days’ written notice is given. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (Rent increases) |
What should I do in case of a breakdown or leakage in a rented house?In case of any breakdown that needs fixing you must contact your landlord or agent. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). Fair Trading (Getting repairs) |
Can I terminate the lease agreement before the deadline?You can terminate the lease agreements, but in this case, you must refund the landlord some costs. There are some circumstances in which you can terminate the lease agreement early without penalty. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (Breaking a lease early) |
Can I get my bond back in case of termination of the lease agreement?You can get your bond back. In case of violation of the terms of the lease agreement or the destruction of the rental property, your bond will be withheld in favour of the lessor. Visit the Fair Trading website to find more information (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (Getting your bond back) |
I am an international student. Where can I get information in languages other than English?The Fair Trading website provides important information in 17 languages (opens in a new window). NSW Fair Trading (International Students)A tenant's guide (in foreign languages) |
States & Territories |
NSW (New South Wales)Information: Tenants NSW (Information, Advice and Advocacy) Disputes: NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
VIC (Victoria)Information: Tenants Victoria (Inform, Educate & Assist) Disputes: Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (Renting a Home) |
QLD (Queensland)Information: Residential Tenancies Authority (Students) Disputes: Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (Residental Tenancy Disputes) |
WA (Western Australia)Information: Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (Housing and Accommodation) Disputes: Magistrates Court of Western Australia |
SA (South Australia)Information: SA.GOV.AU (Renting) Disputes: South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
TAS (Tasmania)Information: Tenants' Union of Tasmania |
ACT (Australian Capital Territory)Information: Tenants' Union ACT Inc. Disputes: ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
NT (Northern Territory)Information: NT.GOV.AU (Renters: your rights and responsibilities) Disputes: Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
Content provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. By providing links to other sites, Student Club does not guarantee, approve, or endorse the information or products available on these sites. Student Club is not liable for any losses or damages arising from your use of linked websites.
|
|
Did you find mistakes? Please feel free to relay your comments, suggestions or corrections, in case of omission or mistake.
|
