The lowdown on rental inclusions
Ever noticed some rental properties come with a few extras? Maybe they’re partly furnished, include white goods or there’s a mower in the garage for the renters to use.
Each of these items is considered an inclusion, and like anything with a rental, they’re governed by law and considered part of the rental agreement.
So let’s look at what happens with inclusions in terms of the rights and responsibilities of both the property owner and the renter.
Standard Inclusions
Standard inclusions are often referred to as fixtures and are a necessary part of all dwellings.
They’re the things you’d expect a property to have like light fittings, curtains or blinds, taps, and may also extend to things like dishwashers.
Each of these items is removable but without them the property wouldn’t function properly. And because they’re considered necessary, they aren’t listed on the rental agreement but are instead considered part of the property.
Extra inclusions
Rental properties come in all shapes and sizes, and some come with extra inclusions.
For example, an acreage property might include a ride-on lawn mower. A house with a pool may have a pool cover and pool scoop.
Meanwhile, some properties come with all white goods included, and others are fully furnished.
Documenting inclusions
If a property has additional inclusions, they should be properly documented in the rental agreement, and as part of that agreement they will be subject to rights and responsibilities for both the owner and renter.
As with other parts of the property, an inclusion will need to be maintained and looked after by the renter, while the owner is responsible for repairs and replacement should the inclusion break or stop working as it should.
What to consider
If you’re a rental property owner considering adding some extra inclusions to your investment, then there are a few things to weigh up.
Ask yourself, will the inclusion make your property more appealing or will it help the renter look after the property?
These are the main reasons that you would include something extra on the rental agreement.
For example a fully furnished property might make it more appealing to a specific demographic of renters, and a ride-on lawnmower might make it easier for renters to look after an acreage property.
But it’s also important to note that every inclusion will have a lifespan, and some might also need ongoing maintenance.
Clear Communication
As with most other facets of property rentals, open communication with your property manager regarding fixtures or additional inclusions is the best way to help prevent any confusion.
There may be specific maintenance required on some types of inclusions. For example, maintaining a bio waste system involves regulating chemicals and periodic emptying.
Open communication also means faster repairs by relevant professionals. The inclusion should be listed within the rental agreement, stating the age and condition along with any specific requests or considerations in the spirit of entering into a well-informed, long-term agreement for both parties.
