Beginning a Tenancy

At the start of your tenancy it is important you should:

  • Carefully read and understand the tenancy agreement before you sign it.
  • Obtain your First National Property Manager’s contact details.
  • Pay the required Bond.
  • Pay rent in advance.
  • Fill out and keep a copy of the Condition Report.

 

Tenancy Agreements


A tenancy agreement, also called a lease, is a legal contract between you and the landlord.
There are two types of tenancy agreements:

  • A fixed-term agreement is for an initial set period.
  • A periodic agreement has no end date.

The tenancy agreement outlines:

  • The rent you need to pay and how to pay it.
  • The length and type of tenancy.
  • The amount of bond required.
  • Other conditions and rules.

First National Bentleigh strive to make this process easy and stress free for both landlords and tenants.

 

Bond

  • As part of the tenancy agreement, First National Bentleigh will ask you to pay a bond.
  • A bond acts as a security that you will meet the terms of your tenancy agreement.
  • If you fail to keep the property clean, cause damage or are in rent arrears, your landlord may claim some or all of the bond when the tenancy ends.
  • Your bond money is held by the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).
  • Once a bond is paid, First National Bentleigh will provide you with a completed and signed official Bond Lodgement form to sign and a receipt will be issued by the RTBA.

 

Condition Report

  • If you have paid a bond, First National Bentleigh will prepare a Condition Report, which notes the property’s general condition, including fittings and fixtures.
  • You are required to complete and return this form within 3 business days of taking possession of the property.
  • The Condition Report can be used as evidence if there is a dispute about who should pay for cleaning, damage or replacement of missing items.

 

Water Meter Readings

  • In the Melbourne metropolitan area, if the property has a separate meter,you will be responsible for water usage and sewage disposal.

 

Utility Connections

When starting a tenancy, you need to:

  • Contact the utility providers of your choice to ensure gas and electricity are connected.
  • Arrange for bills to be in your name.
  • Leave enough time to arrange any connections prior to moving in.

 

To find out more about the tenancy process, please contact us