A big question that many landlords and tenants have when owning or renting a property is “can a landlord sell a property during a lease?” The short and simple answer is yes.

Property owners are well within their rights to sell their property whenever they so wish. However, as a landlord it’s important you remember that you must stand by the lease that your tenants have signed. So what does this mean if you’re looking to sell your property to prospective buyers?

You can sell your property tomorrow if you wanted, but your tenant’s legal rights mean that they retain the right to continue residing in the rental property – even if you sell up. Basically, provisions are in place that means the new property owner will become their landlord until their lease is up – or if the lease allows for eviction upon sale.

Check your Lease Before Selling

A tenancy agreement lease is a legally binding contract. They are drawn up and signed by all parties to help ensure that there are as few problems in the future as possible. They protect the landlord by ensuring a minimum tenancy term is in place with acknowledgement of rental prices, payment dates and general conditions being agreed to by the tenant.

For the tenant, it ensures that rental prices cannot be raised without warning and that the property they rent is safe to call home. Without breaking the lease terms, there are very few reasons for eviction – even if you are selling it.

In some leases, it’s not uncommon to find a clause governing what happens in the event of a sale. This can make it easier to ask tenants to leave, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right thing to do. A property manager will be able to find ways that keep everyone involved happy, usually acting as a mediator. However, the law is put into place for a reason and trying to force tenants out who are protected by a lease could land you in hot water.

Think From a Tenants Point of View

Telling your tenants about your intention to sell the property should be your first priority. Transparency and honesty can help prevent unpleasant situations from occurring. As the property owner, you don’t have to worry about finding somewhere else to live. Put yourself in your tenant’s shoes for a moment.

Imagine you’re browsing the local property listings, looking for a place for friends to move to nearby. You’re awfully scrolling through and suddenly you see your home for sale. Nobody told you about it and now you’re starting to panic. Do I have to move out immediately? What about my deposit? Is this even allowed? These are the questions that will be racing through the tenant mind – and yes, they are likely to be angry.

Before you even take that first step of listing it in a real estate site, talk to your tenants or have a property manager do it for you. Alleviate their concerns, answer their questions and let them know that they are safe in their rental property. If you do this, they will be far more willing to assist with the process rather than make your property as unsellable as possible.

What Happens During the Property Selling Process?

As we mentioned above, getting the tenant on side by keeping them informed is a priority. Trying to show prospective buyers around a property that is inhabited by tenants can be hard – and it can also be disruptive to the tenants overall quality of life. Can a tenant refuse to allow viewers to enter? No. Can they prevent you from showing it every day? Yes.

Here are a few simple rules to be aware of to keep things running smoothly and with as few issues as possible.

• As the property owner, you can request that the property is to be kept in good condition – as agreed to in the lease. However, you can’t request that the tenants make any changes or efforts to make the property more sellable.
• Tenants are to be given sufficient notice of your intention to show the property to potential buyers. However, you’re required to keep weekly showings to a reasonable level – meaning unless the tenant agrees, you can’t show people around every day of the week.
• You legally need to make potential owners aware of the fact that there are tenants currently in the property. They also need to know that once they purchase the property, the lease still stands and they become the new landlord.
• You can notify potential buyers that the lease can be terminated after the sale has gone through – but they must abide by the contract’s current terms and conditions. This typically means providing notice of either 30 or 60 days to leave the property.

So It’s Possible to Sell a Property During a Lease?

Absolutely! At the end of the day, you are well within your rights to do as you wish with your property. As long as you make it clear to potential buyers that you currently have tenants in situ and navigate tenant anxiety with respect, all is good.

It’s also good etiquette to let your tenants know of your intentions before advertising it for sale. This way, they’ll likely be much more cooperative and willing to assist you rather than go out of their way to hold things up.

If you use a property manager, they’ll take care of all the small details and keep tenants informed throughout the process so you can focus on your next steps in life.

Make the Change – Get Leased

Keeping on top of rental property sales, laws, regulations and codes of conduct can be tricky for many landlords. If you have any questions regarding the upcoming sale of your property and the best way to handle current tenants, contact Leased today.

For more great info and advice covering rental properties, property management and building your property portfolio, check out our additional industry insights. Everything you need to know in one smart little place.

Discover the difference. Make the change and switch to Leased today.

As a new landlord, or perhaps someone who hasn’t dealt with property management services before, you may be wondering ‘what does a property manager do?’ The easiest way to answer this is to take a closer look at the services provided and what to expect.

But to answer the question for those short on time, a property manager is a person hired to handle the maintenance, everyday running and administration of rental properties on behalf of the property owner.

For those with a little bit of time to spare, we’ll answer the question in depth below.

What is a property manager?

Property managers are specialists in real estate rentals. Unlike sales, their priorities aren’t to sell your property, but to maximise your ability to rent it out at the best rental prices – helping not only protect your investment; but to grow it.

Typically, the bulk of their tasks revolve around:

• Finding and screening suitable tenants
• Marketing the property to a larger audience
• Keeping rates competitive while covering overheads and taxes
• Maintaining the property on the landlord behalf
• Setting and collecting rental payments
• Resolving any tenant issues on the landlord’s behalf
• Covering those all-important rental laws and changes
• Ensuring the landlord’s investment is optimised

What do property management companies do?

A good property management company will be able to rent out your property reasonably quickly. An excellent one will do the same – but work to keep tenants in place for as long as possible. It’s no secret that happy tenants stick around for longer and are often prepared to pay more when they feel comfortable and secure in a property.

In total, there are five key areas that property management covers. Each of them works in perfect harmony with the next to provide a well-rounded service. The aim is to ensure landlords don’t have to deal with managing tenant issues, rent payments and maintenance and tenants are attended to when they need it.

Rental collection

Not only will a property manager perform a survey to understand local rental prices, property types and demand, they will also optimise your listing for maximum revenue. The idea is to discover that golden number. Low enough to attract potential tenants, but high enough to generate sufficient secondary revenue for the landlord.

As part of the process, property managers will also set up a payment system to collect rents as they are due. The payment dates are usually determined by the associated monthly expenses incurred by the property, such as local rates, taxes and insurance, etc. Late fees are often attached, encouraging tenants to pay up on time.

Tenant Screening

In a perfect world, every tenant would have an impeccable credit history and fantastic references. However, the sad truth is that many people don’t. Property managers use modern technology and access to data to verify a tenant’s past rental behaviours – minimising the potential risk of missed rent payments.

Screening also typically included references from past landlords. These give a better understanding of the tenant’s reliability not only with making rent payments on time but also how they treated the property. Chasing unpaid rent can be time-consuming. A property manager will take care of the legalities, helping to keep your finances flowing with as little disruption as possible.

Property maintenance

Property managers are responsible for keeping properties in a habitable and safe condition. They take care of the physical management of the rental property, ensuring that any emergency repairs and regular maintenance are completed properly and on time.

Depending on your requirements, they also include tenant responsibilities into the tenancy agreement. This could be that tenants are responsible for maintaining gardens or communal spaces, outlining who is responsible for what.

You can also expect your property manager to take action in the event of accidental or malicious damage; taking the appropriate steps to resolve any issues with the property itself. It can take a lot of time and effort to find trustworthy and reliable tradespeople and maintenance staff. Let a property manager do it for you so you can focus on other important life events.

Investment protection

Your property is an investment. And every investment needs proper care and attention. Accounting and budgeting are two vital areas to pay close attention to. Firstly, because financial responsibilities such as tax and rates require it. Secondly, because it helps you to see where you can make savings and what can be done to maximise your returns.

It’s for this very reason that any property management company you use should be well versed in proper accounting practices. Failure to do so could see you struggling when the time comes to prepare your books for tax filing or rebates. Everything from income to expenses should be included, including receipts, rental records, insurance claims, repair costs and maintenance costs.

Relationship management

This is probably one of the areas landlord’s dread the most – dealing with tricky tenants and undesirable situations. Keeping pets in a pet-free property, disruptive behaviour, poor property hygiene and late or missed payments can soon escalate into a battle between landlord and tenant.

A property manager understands how to mediate and manage the trickiest situations for the best outcomes all round. When you have a property management company on your side, you can say goodbye to any unpleasant and unwanted conversations should the issue arise. (Proper tenant screening can help prevent these situations from the get-go).

Make the Change – Get Leased

Keeping on top of rental properties can be tricky for many landlords, which is where Leased. comes to the rescue. Our real estate professionals are ready and waiting to turn your empty properties into secondary incomes by finding the perfect tenants, managing the everyday runnings of the property and ensuring everything goes as smoothly as possible. When it comes to property management, we’re the change you’ve been looking for.

For more great info and advice covering rental properties, property management and building your property portfolio, check out our industry insights today! Everything you need to know in one smart little place.

Discover the difference. Make the change and switch to Leased today.

If you own an investment property that you let out as a rental, you might just benefit from taking out landlord insurance. Landlord insurance keeps your income stream and your property well protected throughout the year, minimising many of the stresses associated with rental properties.

With so many different types of insurance available, we know just how confusing it can be for you. So to help clear up any confusion and point you in the right direction, we’ve pulled together this guide about why landlord insurance is so important.

What Exactly is Landlord Insurance?

Landlord insurance is pretty much self-explanatory. Just as contents insurance covers content, landlord insurance covers all of those areas surrounding renting out your property to tenants. It’s a specific type of policy that covers property owners for a whole host of risks.

In a perfect world, tenants would always pay their rent on time and your property would be kept in an immaculate condition. To be fair, most tenants are respectful of payments and property, but there’s always going to be a small handful who don’t.

Think of landlord insurance as being a safety net that minimises the impact of missing rent payments and damage both from humans and natural disasters.best of all, it tends to be extremely affordable. For just a few hundred dollars a year, you can enjoy absolute peace of mind – which as a property owner is priceless!
Each insurance provider covers different things, but there are a few that are the same across the board:

Accidental Damage

It’s an unfortunate fact, but accidents happen. A glass of vino spilled on a carpet, a leaking washing machine or a burn in a countertop from a hot pan – all of these simple acts can destroy your property and its furnishings. Depending on the type and extent of damage caused, repairs can start to spiral. Carpets don’t come cheap – neither does a new ceiling.

Landlord insurance that includes liability cover and accidental damage can save you plenty of dollars in the long-term. Of course, exactly what is covered will depend on the policy provider. Not all of them will cover water damage or glass breakage, so make sure you read the small print and have all bases covered.

Some of the main things it will cover include:

• Broken windows and door locks
• Carpets and flooring
• Flooding from laundry machines
• Natural disasters such as flooding or fire

Malicious Damage

Luckily, the majority of tenants are reasonable people and don’t set out to cause damage and destruction on purpose. However, that’s not to say that everyone is made equal.

Miscommunication, reprimands and frustration can turn a level-headed tenant into a wrecking ball. From broken doors and windows to kids drawing and scratching on walls and surfaces – damage is never a good thing.

When looking for the best landlord insurance, take a close look at the policy disclosure statement to check if it’s included. Not every insurer is prepared to offer it while others may charge a premium for it.

Some of the main things it may cover include:

• Theft of property from the building
• Vandalism or malicious damage
• Legal expenses for evictions

Non Payment of Rent

Depending on the type of policy you have, some will cover rental payments in the event of damage repairs needing to be performed. Typically, this will leave the property standing empty for extended periods of time. If you’re covered, you’ll receive rent payment equivalents until new tenants move in – sometimes for as long as up to one year.

If covered, landlord insurance will also typically cover defaulted rental payments, court-ordered evictions and loss of rent due to the death of a tenant. It’s also not uncommon for representation fees and legal costs to be covered when pursuing a tenant for unpaid rent through the courts.

What Doesn’t Landlord Insurance Cover?

There are a few things that the majority of insurance policies won’t cover.

• General wear and tear to the property and its fixtures.
• Loss of rental income due to no tenancy.
• Tenant-paid repairs or replacements to damage.
• General or routine maintenance expenses.

There are also a variety of inclusions you should consider if you want to enjoy maximum protection. Some insurance policies will include these as standard, but they are often optional inclusions. Choosing to add these may result in higher premiums and payments but will often pay for themselves in the event of a claim.

• Property or equipment damage caused by a pet.
• Expenses for re-letting after making a rental loss claim.
• Changing of door locks are making a rental claim.
• Legal costs for making rental claims in court.
• Increased rental cost payment thresholds.
• Removing tenants possessions after a rental loss or a claim.
• Public liability cover for visitors to the property.

How Much Does Landlord Insurance Cost?

Asking how much does landlord insurance cost is like asking how long is a piece of string? The total cost will depend on the provider, the property value, whether you allow tenants to keep pets in the property and the location. Optional inclusions can push the price up, but in many cases, are well worth it.

To give you a better idea of what you’ll most likely need to pay, $400 a year is a good estimated average price. This may seem like a lot for some, but for the equivalent of $33 a month, the return coverage you get ensures you are well-protected and never at a loss in the event of a claim.

It’s important to remember that cheap isn’t always the best option. Unfortunately, when it comes to insurance, you get what you pay for. Is it really worth losing $1000’s in defaulted rent payments just to save $3 a month? How much would it cost to refit carpets in a flooded home? Weigh up your options, know what your biggest losses are likely to be and then take opt to add the most beneficial inclusions to your policy.

Make the Most of Your Rental Properties

Trying to manage your investment properties can be hard work – especially when you face issues with tenants. At Leased. our property management professionals take care of the everyday running of rentals and tenancy agreements so you don’t have to.

Issues with non-payment of rent? Struggling to find the right tenants to move in? Unsure of how to navigate recent changes to Australian rental laws? Let us help you get the best returns on your investment properties and enjoy a stress-free, streamlined experience.

Make the switch today and join Leased.

Many landlords around the country are currently facing financial uncertainty. Concerns about rent payments, eviction and legalities are running high, adding to an already frustrating situation. The government has announced measures to help both landlords and tenants through these hard times, including mortgage breaks, rent payments and JobKeeper payments.

COVID-19 has impacted people from all walks of life, with both health and economy taking a hard hit. Now is the time for stability and certainty for landlords affected by the coronavirus, and at Leased, we’re here to help. We know that information is key at such important times, so here are the steps to take and the assistance you can receive.

COVID-19 Landlord financial assistance

During the current climate, it’s more important than ever to keep your tenants on side and making rent payments. We’re able to help you work on a plan of action to ensure you aren’t left with an empty rental property by helping all parties come to a satisfactory solution.

Available Options

• If your tenants are facing financial hardship, we can direct them to the right place to claim their $1,500 wage package or advise on using the Centrelink website. It’s important to remember that the above options are only available for Australian citizens. There are currently no assistance options for non-native citizens.
• If you have taken out landlord insurance, you may be eligible to receive an equivalent rent payment for a limited amount of time after 6 weeks have passed. Please refer to your insurer for advice.
• You have the ability to request a moratorium (mortgage holiday) on your monthly mortgage payments from your bank. This can help ease the financial burden for a period of several months while COVID-19 is being controlled with activity restrictions. 
• If your tenant has failed to pay rent before the pandemic and is, or was, facing a tribunal hearing, they cannot be evicted. This is a new situation that will require careful planning and evaluation to find a way forward for all involved. 

COVID-19 Tenant financial assistance

As a landlord, you’ll need to ensure that your tenants are aware of all of the options available to them. Failure to do so could see your revenue stream adversely affected. While you could do this yourself, rules and regulations are changing on an almost hourly basis. Providing the wrong information and trying to keep on top of things can cause undue stress during already stressful times. 

This is where a property manager can step in and take control. Understanding the complexities of rental laws and recent changes can make all the difference between getting paid or going short. We can make arrangements directly with your tenants on your behalf, keeping them up-to-date with all of the latest financial assistance advice.

Available Options for Employees

• Employers who are eligible will receive a fortnightly JobKeeper payment of $1,500 for each eligible employee. This payment is then paid to the employee (before tax) and topped up by the employer if the usual amount exceeds this.
• If an employee has been stood down and they currently earn more than $1,500 a fortnight,  they are entitled to a minimum fortnightly payment of $1,500 before tax.
• If an employee has been stood down and they currently earn less than $1,500 a fortnight, They will receive their regular income amount.
• Be aware that superannuation on additional wage payments is done so at the discretion of the employer. This is not mandatory.
• From April 27th 2020, those who are self-employed, a sole trader, a contract worker or a casual worker now earning less than $1,075 a fortnight due to the economic effects of COVID-19 can receive assistance.
• The partner income test has been increased to $79,000 from $48,000 a year. To be eligible, applicants need to apply before April 13th. 
• Once an application has been made, tenants should keep on top of rent payments to the best of their ability. Your property manager should be able to mediate and provide a plan of action for those who are struggling until payments kick in.

Current Position on Eviction

While it can be frustrating when rent payments are missed, the current situation across the country has led to new laws being put into place. Communication is vital to ensure that any issues are dealt with swiftly.

Landlords should be aware of the following:

• Tenancy agreements across the board are now protected with a temporary moratorium of six months against eviction for non-payment of rent.
• Both tenant and landlord should try to come up with a mutual agreement. Your property manager can deal with this on your behalf.
• Tenants have the ability to terminate their lease or tenancy agreement if facing financial hardship. Preventing this from happening is and may require mediation to resolve.
• Those who are not impacted by COVID-19 are expected to honour the terms of their lease or tenancy agreement. This pertains to both landlord and tenant.

Short-term rental options

Airbnb has provided full refunds for stays booked in up until April 14th, 2020. This is likely to be extended, depending on the severity of travel restrictions and new temporary measures that make staying in short-term rentals illegal until further notice. 

If you currently operate private short-term accommodation, protecting your investment can be achieved with a few short measures. If you choose to remain in the short-term rental market, you could be facing zero occupancies and income for the foreseeable future.

Available Options

• Switch your rentals from short-term to long-term leases. With job uncertainty, reduced income and a potential financial crisis looming, vacations and leisure travel will likely take a hard hit over the coming months.
• Avoid listing any properties as ‘work away from home’ or ‘isolation vacation packages’. Doing so puts you at risk of a hefty fine or imprisonment. you can continue to advertise, but the property must remain empty until further notice.
• As experienced property managers, we are able to help you find suitable tenants, deal with legalities, arrange viewings and much more. As short-term rentals are typically furnished, you could achieve higher rental prices or put furniture in storage and rent as unfurnished.
• Once you have long-term tenants in place, you will be guaranteed of consistent income. This income will not be affected by seasonality, economic constraints or future travel restrictions.

How Leased can help

Our team of highly experienced property managers are ready to step up to the mark and help see landlords and tenants through this testing situation. With tensions running high, it’s important to use the right approach to avoid any confrontations and potential legal action at a later date.

We’re able to provide current and up-to-date help and assistance, ensuring landlords face as few issues as possible. At Leased, we take care of our customers, providing them with the certainty they need, now and we’ll into the future.

In New South Wales, the government has advised that it’s currently illegal for anyone to stay in short-term accommodation, such as Airbnb, without having a lawful or valid reason.

According to the new regulations laid out to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in Australia, nobody should be staying in a property other than their own permanent residence. Anyone found breaking these emergency measures faces fines up to $11,000 or six months imprisonment.

The advice has been made clear. Stay in your home. Now is not the time to visit family and friends, travel or to go on vacation. Many short-term letting agents have tried to bypass these restrictions by advertising properties as ‘working from home bases’ and ‘self-isolation packages’. However, these are now no longer classed as a valid reason and have been clamped down on.

By-laws are also expected to come into force on April 10th prohibiting the short term rental of a property that isn’t the primary place of residence of the host.

What does this mean for short-term rentals?

In the simplest terms, landlords who focus on short-term rental properties are facing financial uncertainty. While advertising is still perfectly legal, allowing guests to stay is not. Nobody knows how long these measures will be in place, meaning revenue and income will come to a grinding halt.

Of course, everyday running costs, maintenance and bills still need to be covered. This could place an unnecessary financial strain on property owners who are already struggling to survive.

What is the solution?

Shifting away from short-term rentals to long-term rentals is one way to protect your investment. While it’s true that renting out your property as an Airbnb or holiday home can attract a higher daily rate, occupancy levels are now at an all-time low and are expected to be so for many months, if not years to come.

The coronavirus pandemic has revealed the fragility of the short-term market, showing how quickly things can go wrong. By moving to long-term leases, you’re guaranteed a steady and regular income throughout the year. Looking away from the current situation, short-term rentals are also seasonally dependent, resulting in low occupancy for many months of the year.

As a property owner, investment security is vital. Having a beautiful property standing empty can be bad for your balance sheets – and the economy.

Long-term rentals vs. short-term rentals

To help you get a clearer picture of how switching to long term rentals can be the best choice to protect your investment, here a few comparisons between the two. 

Short-term rental property

First and foremost, there is no guaranteed income for short-term lets. Seasonality, force majeure and economic downturns can all have a negative impact on occupancy. You could spend more trying to find guests than you receive, making your investment work against you instead of for you.

Excessive maintenance and upgrades, including providing a fully furnished property with modern amenities, decorations and cleaning can eat into your profit margins. Poorly maintained properties are likely to attract negative reviews, which could result in decreased bookings.

Management issues are also common. Coordinating gardeners, cleaners, maintenance, check-in and check-out, bookings and availability, guest complaints, refunds and more can eat into your time and revenue – especially if you don’t have the right support or tools on hand.

Lastly, competition in the surrounding area can be fierce. With the rise of Airbnb and similar property let’s, there will often be more properties than travellers, resulting in reduced supply and demand. Unless you have an amazing property at knockdown rates, it can be hard to succeed.

Long-term rental property

While short term rental properties don’t offer consistent income, long-term leases do. You are able to set the rental amount to cover all of your associated expenses, plus extra as disposable income. 

Another benefit is that the majority of tenants take on unfurnished rental properties. This means that you don’t need to provide modern and expensive furniture, decorations and amenities. Of course, the property needs to be in a habitable condition, but other than that, your initial outlay is low.

Charging higher deposits provides you with an additional layer of security. Not only does it safeguard against damage and destruction of the property, it also covers any missed and unpaid rent payments. With short-term lets, the small deposit may only provide protection against gentle damage, costing you more in the long term.

Fewer people in and out is also a huge bonus. The more turnover a property has, the more likely it is to need expensive maintenance, repairs and upgrades. You are able to stipulate who is responsible for general upkeep in the tenancy agreement, reducing the time and cost spent on the property.

The issue some long-term landlords face is finding reliable tenants and dealing with legalities, however, that is where a good property manager comes in.

Why use a property manager?

Property management services are hugely useful at the best of times, ensuring you have a stress-free experience from start to end. But it’s at times like these where you could truly benefit from the knowledge and expertise of a leading property manager. 

The current situation is evolving at a rapid pace, with new laws, rules and regulations coming into force on an almost daily basis. 

A property manager help with:

• Determining how much your property should be marketed for to prospective tenants.
• Recommending property improvements to make it more appealing to tenants.
• Verify the suitability of applicants with industry tools to check rental history and references.
• Taking care of maintenance issues in a timely manner to prevent any issues from arising.
• Make sure that any strata levies, rates and insurance costs are paid on time.
• Perform regular inspections to ensure the tenant is taking care of your investment
• Rectify any payment issues and provide representation at any Residential Tenancies Tribunals.
• Advertise and promote your rental property in the best possible way.
• Keep on top of legal issues and current laws and legislations as per your governing state.

The easiest way to switch

While short-term property rentals can typically attract higher daily rates, running costs, maintenance, taxes and low occupancy can cost you dearly both long and short-term. With the current situation making it illegal to rent out or stay in private short-term accommodation, now is the time to take a new approach.

Forget about the complexities of entering the long-term property rental market alone. At Leased, we can take care of everything on your behalf, giving you maximum peace of mind during these uncertain times. Our job is to make your property work for you, not against you. Make the switch today and discover property management done right. 

As of March 23rd 2020, changes to current NSW residential tenancy laws came into effect. But what exactly do the new Tenancy laws mean for NSW landlords? Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, understanding how the recent changes will affect you is important.

Changes to the NSW Residential Tenancies Regulation 2019 and the NSW Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2018 will have an impact on rental increases, breaking leases and tenancy termination.

Here is a summary of all the main changes landlords and tenants should be aware of, regardless of whether you use a property manager or not.

Changes to NSW Rent Increases

Rent increases are limited to one increase during every 12 month period for ongoing periodic agreements. If the agreement is fixed-term and for less than two years, landlords no longer need to provide 60 days written notice. However, any increase must be set out in the agreement for the written notice waiver to be valid.

Changes to Fixed Utility Providers

Landlords or property managers are prohibited from including terms that make it mandatory for tenants to use specific utility providers if the landlord is not restricted to using any one provider. This change applies to all residential tenancy agreements dated from March 23rd 2020 onwards. Tenants are free to choose any provider they deem fit and cannot be forced to take on the landlords ‘preferred’ utility providers.

Tenant Breaking Fixed Term Tenancy Agreement

Tenants are well within their rights to break their lease early, with a fixed breaking fee reflecting the total length of the fixed-term lease that has expired. This will take effect on all leases signed after March 23rd 2020.

• Tenants will pay a break fee equivalent to one week’s rent for fixed-term agreements that have satisfied 75% or more of their lease duration.
• Tenants will pay a break fee equivalent to two week’s rent for fixed-term agreements that have satisfied at least 50% of the lease duration but less than 75% of it.
• Tenants will pay a break fee equivalent to three week’s rent for fixed-term agreements that have satisfied at least 25% of the lease duration but less than 50% of it.
• Tenants will pay a break fee equivalent to four week’s rent for fixed-term agreements that have satisfied less than 25% of the lease duration.

Tenant Making Minor Alterations to Premises

Tenants are able to make minor renovations, additions and alterations if the residential tenancy agreement permits it or they have the landlord’s written consent. Should the tenant make a request, the landlord or property manager cannot withhold consent unreasonably.

Unless the landlord or property manager agrees otherwise, any additions, renovations, alterations or fixture installations must be paid for by the tenant. For properties that are listed as heritage items or on the loose-fill asbestos insulation register, the changes to tenancy laws do not apply.

The following list of minor additions, renovations, alterations and fixture installations still require the tenant to get written permission from the landlord or property manager. 

However, if the property is not exempted due to being a heritage item or on the loose-fill asbestos insulation register, placing conditions on consent or refusing consent to the tenant will be seen as unreasonable.

Minor Additions, Renovations, Alterations & Fixtures

• Installing window safety devices, such as window locks to improve the safety of children residing in the property.
• Installing child safety gates within the property, such as on doorways and stairs.
• Attaching child-proof latches to outdoor gates of single dwellings.
• Affixing furniture to non-tiled walls for safety purposes.
• Affixing fly screen to windows on the property.
• Applying shatter-resistant film to glass doors and windows.
• Replacing or installing internal window coverings such as removable blinds and curtains and installing cord guides and cleats.
• Installing lever-style taps and handheld showerheads for disabled or elderly occupants.
• Planting shrubs, herbs, flowers and vegetables in the garden if existing vegetation does not need to be removed and they don’t grow more than two meters tall.
• Inserting or replacing screws, nails and hooks for hanging picture frames, paintings and similar items.
• Installing removable wireless security cameras outdoors.
• Installing cable internet connections or phone lines.

The landlord or property manager can request that the installation of phone lines, internet connections, lever-style taps and hand-held showerheads be carried out by a qualified person.

Tenant Damage and Modifications

Except for fair wear and tear, tenants are responsible for leaving the property in the same condition as they found it when their residential tenancy agreement started. This includes ensuring any renovations, additions or alterations are removed at the end of the lease. They are also responsible for repairing any damage caused to the property.

Any fixtures the tenant has installed can also be removed if they wish to do so. However, should any damage occur as a result of removing fixtures, the tenant is obligated to either repair or compensate the landlord. Any fixtures that have been paid for by the landlord cannot be removed by the tenant.

Should the tenant fail to make any repairs or any repairs are not made to a satisfactory standard, landlords can seek compensation by applying to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal. This is especially true should the landlord or property manager face hardship in letting the premises to future tenants due to the nature of disrepair or damage.

Landlord Smoke Alarm Responsibility

Landlords and property managers must ensure that smoke alarms are installed and in good working order. Failure to do so will result in penalties. Landlords must:

• Perform annual smoke alarm checks and verify that they are working correctly.
• Replace removable batteries either annually or as per the smoke alarm manufacturer instructions.
• Replace or repair smoke alarms that are not working within two days of becoming aware of the fact.
• Replace smoke alarms with new ones within 10 years of the date of manufacture; or earlier if specified by the manufacturer.

If a tenant becomes aware of a smoke alarm that needs replacement or repair, they need to immediately notify the property manager or landlord. This includes the need to replace a battery. Should the tenant replace the battery themselves, they must notify the property manager or landlord upon completion.

When it comes to replacing or repairing smoke alarms, tenants can only do so if the landlord or property manager fails to repair or replace the smoke alarm within two days of being notified. Tenants should be reimbursed for the cost of replacement or repair when providing appropriate evidence.

*Note – social housing tenants are not covered by these provisions.

Landlord or Property Manager Information Disclosure

Property managers and landlords must not conceal material facts or make misleading or false statements to prospective tenants before they sign a tenancy agreement. 

Before any agreement is signed, the landlord or property manager must also tell the tenant of any prepared sales contracts, intentions of selling the property, or if any court action is being taken to repossess the property.

The complete list of material facts can be found here. The new material facts that have been added include:

• Landlord or property manager disclosing whether the property has been used to grow or manufacture prohibited drugs in the past two years.
• Landlord or property manager disclosing whether the building has been issued a fire safety or building product the rectification order for external combustible cladding.
• Landlords or property managers must disclose whether the property is part of a strata scheme with scheduled major repairs or rectification work to be done on the common property during the fixed-term agreement.

Seven Standards of Fit for Habitation

To be able to legally rent out a property to tenants, landlords and property managers must ensure the property is fit for habitation. Over the years, the ambiguous nature of these requirements has often led to disputes. 

To help clear up any ambiguity and clarify what fit for habitation is considered to be, the following habitation requirements have been introduced. it’s important to note that all rental properties must meet these minimum requirements as of March 23rd 2020.

1. The property must be structurally sound.
2. The property must have adequate ventilation.
3. The property must have adequate drainage and plumbing.
4. The property must contain private bathroom facilities, including bathing and toilet facilities.
5. The rental property must have adequate artificial or natural lighting in all rooms except for garages and storage rooms.
6. There must be a connected water supply service or infrastructure for the supply of cold and hot water for cleaning, washing and drinking.
7. Must have a gas and electric supply with adequate gas or electricity outlets for appliances, heating and lighting.

Make the Change – Get Leased

Keeping on top of current rental property laws, regulations and codes of practice can be challenging for many landlords. If you have any questions regarding the recent changes to NSW rental laws and are considering letting your property, contact Leased today.

Know exactly where you stand when it comes to your tenants and landlord rights when letting a property through Leased. Secure your investment and enjoy knowing your rights are well protected!

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Discover the difference. Make the change and switch to Leased today.

The content of this blog post is for reference use only. For a full list of changes to NSW property rental laws, please check the NSW fair trading website for more.

For landlords, finding tenants can be challenging – especially when the economy starts to slow down. Every property needs to be habitable, meaning ongoing maintenance is crucial. Everything from the electrics and plumbing to the windows and doors needs to be up to standard. These are non-negotiable and are legal requirements in every state.

Depending on how you approach your property lets, you may or may not provide appliances and white goods. If you don’t, it’s time to start thinking about making the change. Rentals that come kitted out with essential items will typically be rented out faster and for longer than those that aren’t.

What items are considered appliances?

Any additional fixture or fitting beyond the basics are considered as standard property appliances. As a general rule of thumb, if it’s movable and plugs into an energy source, it’s an appliance. Things that wouldn’t be classified as appliances would be an electric water heater, LED lights and a shower. These are standard fixtures expected to be included. 

Depending on what’s included, the rental status can change, becoming much more lucrative for the landlord.

Unfurnished. Standard property rental without any appliances or furniture included. Typically achieves the lowest rental amounts and often stays empty for longer.

Part-furnished. Includes essential white goods, such as a fridge freezer, a washing machine, a microwave —the most popular type of rental.

Fully- furnished. Fully kitted out with all standard appliances and all furniture. Popular as holiday rentals and commands the highest rental prices.

Do landlords have to include appliances?

This all depends on how you or your property manager advertise your property. If it’s listed as an unfurnished rental, then you are not legally required to provide any appliances. Of course, you need to ensure that working plumbing and electrics are in place. But nothing needs to be connected to them.

On the flip side of the coin, if you’re renting out your property as part-furnished, certain appliances will need to be provided. These will typically include an oven, a refrigerator and a washing machine – vital components used in everyday life.

But wait! If you don’t have to legally provide appliances, then why would you? The real question here is ‘why wouldn’t you?‘

Many people searching for a new place to live will typically look for somewhere with bulky or expensive appliances already included. Offering whitegoods as part of the tenancy agreement introduces a higher weekly or monthly rental rate, which is good for the bank balance.

Part-furnished property rentals can go anywhere from $200 – $500 more than an unfurnished one. Over the course of a one-year tenancy, it can generate between $2,400 and $6,000 in additional income. 

To give you a rough idea, a $1,200 refrigerator can boost rent prices by $50 a month. In two years, it will have paid for itself and will continue to generate revenue for many years to come.

What appliances are best for rental properties

It’s all about understanding what people need versus what people want. A few luxury extras go a long way with getting tenants signed up to an agreement, but the essentials are what will clinch the deal. 

Here are our 8 recommended appliances to include in your rental property.

1. Washing Machine

Big, bulky and hard to transport. Offering a modern washing machine as part of the tenancy agreement can be a big draw for many renters. An essential item everyone needs, opting for an energy-saving model can keep bills low for your tenants while boosting your additional revenue stream.

2. Refrigerator

Another life essential is the refrigerator. More often than not, this will be the most expensive appliance that you provide aside from the stove or oven. Typically large and heavy, many tenants are happy to pay extra for a property that includes one. Modern fridges consume less power and last for longer than old units. Opting for a combi fridge-freezer is even better.

3. Microwave

One of the cheapest appliances you can add to your property is the microwave. A favourite in homes around the world, they offer convenient, time-saving heating that everyone appreciates. Many newer models come with broiling and baking settings making them perfect if you don’t include an oven in your property. However, their low price tag won’t generate much additional income. Perhaps an extra $5 a week.

4. Air Conditioning

With rising temperatures and long, hot summers – failing to include air conditioning in your rental property can be a deal-breaker for many people. If you don’t have air-con units installed, portable air conditioners can be a great way to entice tenants to sign up. These easy-to-move machines provide sufficient cooling and can cost less to run than a complete system thanks to their compact nature.

5. Dishwasher

Another luxury item that many people appreciate is the dishwasher. While not necessarily seen as a must-have appliance for everyone, it can help create a finished look to the kitchen. Installing a water-saving dishwasher with eco settings will make it cheaper for your tenants to run and will usually pay for itself in the space of 2-3 years.

6. Clothes Dryer

More of a luxury item than a necessity, a clothes dryer makes it possible to keep clothing clean and fresh throughout the year. While most people will be happy to dry laundry in the garden, not every property comes with an outside area. If you’re renting out an apartment, a clothes dryer can improve your prospects of getting tenants moved in at a faster rate.

7. Flat Screen TV

Including a large flat screen smart TV can give your property a more luxurious feel. While the majority of people will already have a TV of their own, including one in the lounge lets them use theirs in the bedroom – something most people appreciate being able to do. Moving away from famous brands to up and coming tech providers can save you $100s without compromising on quality. Renting out property is all about dressing it in a way that adds value, and a TV can help with this.

8. Vacuum Cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is an excellent addition to every rental property – mainly because it encourages tenants to keep the place clean. Many modern vacuum cleaners are lightweight and easy to use and are generally very affordable. A stick vacuum is a great choice as it takes up very little space and runs on a battery. If you’re renting out a high-end property, then a robot vacuum cleaner adds that extra touch many now expect to find.

Keeping your appliances protected from damage

No matter whether you include just one appliance or the full range, there are steps you need to take to keep yourself protected. It’s no secret that tenants tend to be more rough with things that don’t belong to them. So letting them know that any damage that occurs is their responsibility is essential.

Create an inventory

When the tenant is ready to sign the tenancy agreement, your property manager will run through an inventory list with them during their walk-through and make sure they sign against each appliance. Your property manager should also take photos with a time and date stamp where possible. They will make it clear that any damage to the appliances is to be repaired at the cost of the tenant.

The bottom line

Once they have signed off the master list, your property manager will keep this for their records. A copy of the document will be given to the tenant as part of their tenancy agreement.

As a side note, you should also ask your property manager to include an additional section regarding the tenants own appliances. This covers you against damage from a leaking washer, the electrics or smoke damage should their devices be faulty.

As a landlord, you need to be responsive to your tenants. You can’t just rent out your property and job done. There are maintenance expenses that you need to be aware of. Let’s make you the best landlord around. Somebody that gets things fixed and fast. Someone who ensures that their tenants have a safe property to live in. At Leased, we’re here to let you know what possible expenses that you might face so you’ll be prepared and ready to respond. 

1. Boiler

If something in the property is going to break down, then it;s going to be the boiler. You’ll have the tenant on the phone screaming that they’ve no hot water, and that you have to fix it NOW! 

Without doubt, boilers can be costly to repair. Perhaps you should look into boiler cover schemes or find yourself a good plumber to look after all of your properties. These options are much better than calling out an emergency plumber and paying extortionate prices. 

You’ll also find that when you have cover or a regular person, they’ll get the boiler fixed quickly. Meaning you’ll have your tenants off your back and happy again in no time. They’ll be in the shower singing your praises. 

2. Heating

In most rental properties, heating won’t be provided by a boiler, but by electric instead. Electricity is often more reliable and this is the reason landlords will opt to choose electric heaters. 

If they break down during the winter months, your tenants are going to feel a chill, and they’ll be calling you to get it fixed. This will also benefit you, as it’ll keep your property warm and avoids damp setting in. 

As you will need to have a PAT test performed on your electrical goods, it’s wise to have them serviced often. If you don’t want to pay for a cover scheme (which you should), then to make sure that you have somebody qualified in heating, to make repairs if problems should arise. 

3. Appliances

If you have chosen to rent your property with appliances, then any wear and tear problems will be your responsibility. Obviously you can’t be held responsible if a child has cooked their toy truck in the microwave. That will be their responsibility. It should clearly state in the tenancy agreement that they pay for any damages caused by them. 

Again, you may have a warranty on some of your appliances and that’s all well and good. But you should ideally look for a local handyman that can do all the little jobs for you. It’ll give you peace of mind, and it’ll stop your tenants calling you on speed dial. 

4. Electrics

Apart from hot water, all the other appliances in the property will be run on electricity. So, it’s vital that you keep everything wired correctly. You won’t be wanting a short circuit. 

It’s vital that you have all of the electrics in the home serviced regularly. This is to protect your tenants from fire hazard, make sure you’re lawful and that your tenants have electricity. Nobody wants to be without lights. 

Don’t skimp when employing somebody to fix the electrics. Saving a few dollars could end up costing lives. Make sure that you find a qualified electrician and that they are a reputable trader. Don’t forget, it’s your property. It’s an investment for you to have good working order. It’s a large expense, but not one that occurs very often. 

5. Leaks

When leaks happen, you’re going to have to act fast. You should be straight on your phone to your plumber asking them to visit as soon as possible. Leaks aren’t just inconvenient for your tenants, they can be devastating for your property too. Leaks cause a large amount of damage, including; mould, ceilings to collapse, pests and much more. What starts off as a small leak could turn into a nightmare.

You’ll need to hire a good plumber, someone that’ll be able to respond quickly. If you use them for all your properties, then you may even be able to make a deal with them and save a few dollars. Let’s not forget though that not all leaks come from pipes. It could be a good idea to get to know a local roofer too. 

6. Blockages

Your tenant may have blocked the kitchen sink numerous times with fat, or their kid keeps flushing toys down the toilet. These aren’t your responsibility and will fall to your tenant to pay. 

But there could be problems with the pipes due to other reasons. This could be; leaves collecting in the downpipes, waste pipes being blocked, or any other issue that isn’t the tenants fault. In these situations, the expenses will fall to you. 

Either way, you’ll need to deal with blockages quickly. You won’t want wastewater backing up into your property. It’s best to have somebody on call for emergencies like these. 

7. Mould

The problem with mould is it’s very sneaky. Sometimes you won’t even know it’s there until you have a massive problem. Your tenants will want this sorting very quickly, as it’s bad people to breathe in the spores and can cause long term health problems. 

Ideally, you will have made sure there is adequate ventilation before your tenants moved in. If you didn’t, you’ll learn the hard way. If you have adequate ventilation and still have a problem, then you’ll need to source where the mould is coming from. It could be that the bathroom is getting too steamy when the shower is used or a seal on a window is degrading. 

When you’ve found the problem, you’ll be able to find the solution and stop any further mould from growing. You can call in a professional to clean up the mould, but to save expenses you could fix the infected area yourself. All you need to do is clean with bleach or a strong disinfectant and then use an anti-mould paint over the top. If steam is an issue in your property, you could invest in a couple of dehumidifiers. Be proactive rather than pay the price. 

8. Bugs/Pests

It may seem unfair to the tenant, but this is why a lot of landlords don’t allow pets in the tenancy agreement. The risk of bugs is substantially increased. Although if you’re a landlord that allows pets, you can always state in the contract that any bugs caused by pets are the tenants responsibility. 

However, if the tenants report other unwanted guests, then the bill will fall down at your feet. And You’ll need to decide whether you can provide steps to remedy the problem, or if you’ll need professional assistance. If it’s infestation, such as; mice, silverfish or cockroaches then you’ll certainly need more than a can of spray. 

Your local council may offer a pest removal service. If not, you’ll need to find a contractor. Make sure that you get an expert; you won’t want your tenants calling back in a week reporting the same problem. 

9. Decorating

This should be an expense at the end of every tenancy agreement. You’ll enter your property and give it a thorough clean and a fresh lick of paint. You should not be expected to decorate due to tenants neglecting your property. If their child has used their crayon all over the wall, then they should clean it and pay for a fresh coat of paint if needed. 

You should also make it clear from the start if you allow the tenants to decorate the property in their own colours. The last thing you want is for your magnolia walls to be painted black. You’ll have a harder job getting the wall back to magnolia when they’ve left. It’s often easier if they make little or no modifications to the property. It’ll save you dollars that you don’t need to spend. 

10. Exterior Of The Property

The exterior of the property is your responsibility. The tenant can’t be blamed for elements beyond their control, so any structural expenses will be coming your way. This could be; roofing, brickwork, windows, fencing or any other issues that arise. These problems don’t tend to happen very often, but if you’ve got good insurance then you’ll be A-OK. 

It’s vital that you’ve got all of this knowledge when drawing up contracts. You and your tenant will want to know exactly what your responsibilities are, for clarification and to maintain a good relationship. You won’t want to fall out with your tenant over an issue that could have easily been sorted from the start. 

At Leased, we understand that the relationship between the landlord and the tenant is very important. We’re committed to giving you all of the information that you need to make your rental a success for you and your tenants. 

As a landlord, you need to to know your rights and the solutions that are needed if a tenant damages your rental property beyond general wear and tear. At Leased, we’re experts in property management and are here to give you all the advice you need for any situation that may arise. Below you’ll find all the information you need to help you cope with nightmare tenants. 

Ask Them To Fix It 

Most tenants won’t cause you a problem. If they’ve caused damage, then they’ll usually be happy to fix it. They won’t want to lose their deposit or be asked to leave. If they are happy in their home, then they’ll want the opportunity for the tenancy agreement to be renewed at the end of the contract period. 

You may find that on a further inspection that your tenant still has not fixed the damage. No doubt, you’ll find this frustrating, but keep calm. Talk to your tenant and find out why. If your tenant keeps ignoring you and is creating further damage, then you’ll need to take further action. 

Tenancy Deposit

When you begin a tenancy agreement, you’ll have asked them for a deposit. This is usually 2-4 weeks rent in advance. Within the agreement, you should have stated that if there is any damage to your property or any monies owing, they’ll forfeit their deposit at the end of the tenancy. 

By withholding the deposit for damages, you’ll be able to pay for any small repairs to your property at the end of the tenancy. 

If it feels like you’d be better demolishing your property and starting again, this is where you’re going to need more than their deposit to help you out.

Small Claims Court

If you enter your property to find the cost of repairs outweighs the bond withheld, you have a few options available to you.

If you find yourself in this situation, you can make an application to the New South Wales Civil And Administrative Tribunal. Every state has its own tribunal courts to deal with these issues.

Making a claim online is easy. If they don’t show up to the hearing, then a judgement can be made in their absence. They’ll then receive notification that they have to pay for the damage, and this will be lawfully binding. They’ll have to pay unless they want to receive further action from the court.

Eviction

To end a tenancy agreement early, you have to provide a good reason and a tenant that is damaging your property is just that. You’ve asked them time after time to be tidy, clean and not cause damage. But here you are again and they have made no effort to change.

As a landlord you have the right to begin eviction proceedings. You’ll need to provide the tenant with a written letter stating why and when they have to leave which must be delivered by hand or registered post. You must have proof that the tenant has received the letter. 

If your tenant decides to ignore your eviction letter, you will have to apply to the court for further action. 

Legal Advice

If you’ve asked a tenant to leave your property and they refuse, the only option left is to seek legal action. You’ll have to find yourself a good solicitor and take legal advice. They’ll be able to guide you through all the steps for gaining a court eviction notice. 

At this stage, the judge will be able to summon your tenants into the courtroom. You’ll both have the opportunity to put your side of the story before the judge, and hopefully, you’ll have some pretty compelling evidence. You’ll need recorded visits, correspondence and photographs to strengthen your case. 

If your tenants lose, they’ll also be responsible for your legal fees, as well as having an enforceable eviction notice. They’ll have to leave your property by the date that the judge says, or they can be forcibly removed. 

Being a landlord is not always easy and sometimes you’re going to experience problems. But remember, a problem shared is a problem halved. At Leased, we’re here to help you with any difficulties that arise. While we can’t always avoid problems, we can work together to fix them. Contact Leased today and experience the expertise of our specialised property managers.

Not sure about the differences between the landlord, tenant and guest. While it may be easy for some, nothing is ever as clear cut as you expect. At Leased we’re here to help and clear up all of the confusion. We’ll take a look at each of them and give you an easy to understand, no nonsense answer so you can get on with more important things in life.

Landlords

The landlord is the person that owns the property. This can be for residential, commercial or office spaces. In this role you’ll be looking to rent a property to a third party that’ll provide you with a regular income. You’ll be able to charge rent as a weekly, monthly or yearly figure. The choice is entirely up to you. 

Firstly you’ll want to decide whether you’ll manage the tenants or if you’d want to assign a property manager. Obviously they’ll take a commission from your profits, but it could be worth it to avoid all of the stress that can come with it. Let somebody else deal with the day to day management for you. Then you can sit back and reap the rewards.

You shouldn’t be unrealistic with rent amounts. Ideally they will be on par with market value and in line with other landlords that you’re competing with. Remember if you’re going to charge super high rent amounts, then the tenants will be expecting a property to match, otherwise they’ll end up looking elsewhere. 

Once you’re ready to lease your property, you or your property manager will be looking to get all of the legalities in place. 

These include:

• Making sure all background checks are completed 
• Agreed on the deposit and monthly rental amounts
• Decided on the term of the tenancy agreement
• Agreeing to the frequency of property inspections
• Have the contract drawn up
• Initial inspection of the property completed by the landlord and tenant
• Ensure there is running water
• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide monitors
• Ensure all furniture conforms to fire regulation standards
• Check that all electrical equipment you provide is PAT tested and safe for use

As a landlord, you’ll be responsible for all repairs to the property that are structural, and to fix household utilities, such as; water issues and electrical problems. If you’re managing the property yourself then you’ll be wise to have contractors available should a problem arise. But if you have a property manager, they’ll take care of these issues for you. 

Your property will become your tenants home. They’ll have to feel secure that they’ll not be asked to leave at a minute’s notice. To terminate a tenancy agreement, you’ll have to have valid reasons. But if your tenant has become a nightmare, ruining your property or being anti-social. Then you’ll be fully within your rights to serve notice. On a brighter note, you could have great tenants that you’ll want to have living at your property for years to come. 

Tenants

A tenant is the person or group of people that rent out a property. These are people that are looking for a home. Perhaps they can’t afford to buy one of their own or they like the freedom to move around. Whatever the reason, your tenant will be looking for a safe and stable environment that they can call home. Regardless of how long they sign a tenancy for. 

An advantage of renting is that tenants have the freedom to move on. Many of the most expensive repairs will fall down to the landlord, especially if they are structural or not of your causing. 

As a tenant, you’ll need to:

• Pay your rent on time
• Look after the property
• Keep it clean and habitual
• Pay for repairs when it is their fault (if their child spills paint all over the carpet)
• Cannot make structural changes
• Not decorate without landlords consent
• Cannot call their own people in to fix problems (when the boiler has died)
• If they bring their own electrical equipment, it’ll have to be tested
• They should test smoke alarms once a month
• Be good neighbours
• Call if there is a fault
• Leave the property clean and as they found it at the end of the tenancy
• Give notice and adhere to the contract if they choose to move out early

Tenants should be aware of all of the rules and regulations before they move in. It shouldn’t be too difficult for them to follow. They should take care of the property as they would if it was their own. 

Obviously you cannot tell your tenants how to live, they are renting this space and paying you money for the privilege. But what you can ask for as a landlord is some respect and for them to adhere to the tenancy agreement.

Guests

Rules around guests should factor in the initial contract. But in a nutshell, a guest is somebody that visits for the day or stays a couple of nights sometimes. 

We all have family over to stay from time to time, whether this is grandkids, friends or crazy Aunt Maud who lives 8 hours away.  A guest is not somebody that sleeps at your property numerous nights a week on a regular basis. This will become a further issue if your tenant is charging money from their guests to stay at your property on a regular basis. Why? because they are effectively subletting to another person that you’ve not agreed to live at your property. 

Before a tenant moves into your property, make sure that they are clear on the rules surrounding guests. Then hopefully, you’ll never have the problem arise. Remind your tenants that if they’d like someone to move in, perhaps a new partner, that would appreciate a heads up. However, from a legal perspective, they are in their full rights to enjoy an uninterrupted family life without notifying you should they move a partner of family member in.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes the lines can become blurred and we just need to clarify who is responsible for what. Whether you’re a landlord, a tenant or a guest, a little knowledge goes a long way. We have plenty of other posts covering this in depth, so why not head on over to the blog now and fill up on the facts.

Here at Leased we’re happy to help. Contact us today