Common rental myths, debunked
Regardless of whether you’re renting for the first time or the fifth, rental rights and obligations can be confusing.
After all, different laws apply to different states and that legislation changes over time. That’s why it’s not surprising there are some common rental myths that abound.
In this article, we’ll break those myths down and look at how both renters and owners can avoid common misunderstandings.
The owner can check on the property at any time…(False)
A rental owner must provide sufficient notice if they intend to check the property, and they must have a valid reason.
In fact, when it comes to who can access the property, when, there are no grey areas. The laws in all states and territories have strict conditions, so let’s break those down…
Owners can only enter the property for the following valid reasons:
- To inspect the property
- To make a repair
- To check a repair or maintenance
- To show it to potential renters
In each of these instances proper notice must be provided. The exact notice periods can vary depending on what state or territory you are in, but that notice must be given in writing, and the time of access must be reasonable.
The only time a rental owner can attend a property without notice is during an emergency, such as a fire, flood, cyclone or if they believe the property has been abandoned.
Inspections can occur monthly…(False)
The law is also pretty clear when it comes to routine inspections. And while it varies depending on what state you live in, in every jurisdiction there are set time periods between each inspection and a maximum number of inspections that can be carried out in any 12-month period.
For example, in Queensland, you can have a maximum of four routine inspections in a 12-month period and there must be at least three months between each.
Repair requests can wait until next inspection…(False)
Repairs can be one of the biggest sources of conflict when it comes to renting.
The reality is, the renter is obliged to report any required repairs in a timely manner, and that’s especially the case when it comes to urgent repairs, safety-related issues, or things that might damage the property if not rectified quickly.
If a repair isn’t urgent, the owner can take as long as they like…(False)
The owner is required to ensure the property remains in the same state of repair as when the renter moved in. That means they are required to complete any repairs in a timely manner.
Now when we say timely, it’s important to note that sometimes repairs can be delayed due to obtaining quotes, complexity of the problem, and shortage of tradespeople.
In other words, it’s about both parties being reasonable when it comes to repair expectations.
Renters can refuse entry notices…(False)
While it’s important to feel like your peace and privacy are being respected, a renter can’t refuse a reasonable request to enter the property or block access to the property.
You can, however, ask for a more suitable time for that entry to occur.
Renters can withhold rent if repairs aren’t made (False)
This is a myth that circulates quite widely, but under law a renter cannot withhold rent if repairs haven’t been made.
If they do, they are in breach of the rental agreement. Instead, the renter should issue a breach notice themselves indicating that a problem at the property needs to be rectified.
All property managers do the same job…(False)
Not all property managers offer the same quality of service or level of care, which is why it’s critical to carefully select the right property manager at the outset.
When it comes to choosing a property manager, look for experience, reputation, systems, procedures, and professionalism, not just cost.
How we can help
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We manage every property as if it were our own and you can learn more about our property management services here.
Alternatively, if you are looking to rent a property, you can view the properties we currently have available here.
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