Financial & Other Considerations
| Bond – | 1 month's rent for rental properties; 14 days for rooming houses |
| Bond Assistance – | You may be eligible for Bond Assistance – contact the local Department of Human Services |
| Rent in advance – | Up to 4 weeks for rental properties; 2 weeks for rooming houses |
| Other costs – | Removal costs, furniture and equipment purchase, electricity and telephone connection fees |
Utilities (Gas, Electricity & Water) Costs
Budget approximately$20 per week in a shared household or $25 per week if living on your own. Ths estimate is based on prudent use of utilities. Allow more if heating is electric.
Insurance
Regardless of what type of accommodation you take, the contents of your room should be covered by your own Contents Insurance Policy.
Leases or Agreements
You should always have either a written lease or occupancy agreement which states any or all of the following:
- commencement date of occupation
- rent payable and how often
- what is included in the rent (services and utilities)
- what facilities you can use and house rules or tenancy regulations to observe
- what period of advanced notice required to vacate the premises
You should also conduct a written Condition Report of your room or property upon moving in, and maintain a copy of the Report in the event there is a dispute concerning damage or cleanliness upon you vacating.
Bond, Rent Payment Receipts & Documentation
If you are required to pay a bond, you and the landlord (or agent) must complete a Bond Lodgement Form and the bond must be paid to the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority. You should keep a copy of this form together with all receipts for payment of monies for rent, your share of utilities and other documentation in a personal file to support your case in the event of a dispute.
Tenancies Disputes
For further details regarding Tenant and Landlord Rights and Obligations, see the helpful links webpage or contact a DUSA Housing Officer.