There are often misunderstandings by tenants regarding rental or lease agreements. The law regarding this issue is very precise and sometimes difficult to understand. Prior to signing any such agreement, it is to your benefit to have an informed person do a rent review.
I am Glenn Duker, a Melbourne based commercial lease lawyer.
When Australia became concerned over landlord-tenant disputes a number of Acts were put into effect. These Acts differ with each state and are sometimes difficult to understand. To find out more about lease or if you need legal advice it is important to confer with a lawyer in the field.
Each Act requires that the rental or lease contract clearly list the terms of the agreement. This will include things such as whether a bond is required, and the amount, if it is for a fixed length of time or month to month. It will also show where responsibility for maintenance and repairs lies, as well as other details.
Bond money, usually equal to a month’s rent, is paid to the Residential Tenancies Authority. This is put in trust in case there is a dispute when the tenancy ends. Under all the Acts, the landlord is required to provide a filled out ‘Bond Lodgement’ document for the tenant’s signature.
There are precise responsibilities of both parties involved. This would include, for example, a ‘Breach of Duty’ notice to a landlord for unsafe property when they fail to do necessary repairs. Knowing the correct steps to take in this case will prevent a lot of misunderstandings.
Many of the Acts regarding leasing and renting landlord/tenant responsibilities have been in place for some time. However, in the NSW a new Act went into effect on 1st February 2011. There have been a number of rule changes which have received good reviews. Prior to signing any binding agreement you should always get legal advice (as this article, being the view of Glenn Duker, is general information only).
Choosing experienced lease lawyer Glenn Duker will give businesses and individuals the ability to make knowledgeable and informed decisions. You can find details and information about the range of services offered by Glenn Duker now!
