Know what is expected of you 

Understanding your rights and responsibilities will help you avoid or quickly resolve differences with your neighbours, real estate agent or landlord.

You should be aware of your rights and responsibilities. These can vary from state to state. 

Lease/tenancy agreements differ between states, so ensure you have the appropriate documentation for your state. Refer to the following website for information on your rights and responsibilities in NSW: 

http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/Tenants_and_home_owners/Renting_a_home.html

Before deciding to rent a property there are a few rules and regulations you need to know. A Residential Tenancy Agreement or ‘lease’ will be drawn up. This is the legal contract that both you and your landlord must abide by.

The lease should include information such as:

• Location of the property
• Rent amount
• Bond amount
• Start and end date of your tenancy
• The landlords’ name

Tip: Never sign a blank form. If you do not understand something, contact the correct authority and ask for advice.