Under the NSW Residential Tenancies Act, a landlord must:
Ensure that the property must be clean and fit and safe to live in and in a good state of repair.
Its important to maintain the premises in good repair and in a way that the premises remain fit for the tenant to live in.
Following an inspection by The Property Lab, we will make recommendations as to any repairs/safety issues that may be required before a tenant moves in.
Beyond that, please take note of the following items:
Smoke Alarms
We highly recommend you read the Requirements for Smoke Alarms in Residential Rental Properties.
The Swimming Pools (Amendment) Act 2012)
If your property has a swimming pool, Its imperative that you are 100% compliant. Please read the Swimming Pools Amendment Act 2012 here.
If you currently use a pool professional, we recommend you continue with the maintenance and work the associated costs into the rent.
Water Efficiency
Under the NSW Residential Tenancies Act, the rental premises must meet required “water efficiency” standards if you are going to charge the tenants for water usage. We are happy to arrange one of our qualified plumbers to provide a water efficiency inspection. A Compliance Certificate is then issued and kept on your file. More information on water efficiency requirements can be found here.
Pest Control
For houses, we strongly recommend an annual termite inspection. Beyond that, If there is an infestation of pests (such as ants or cockroaches) a pest treatment would de deemed necessary
Exterior Cleaning & Garden Tidy Up
For houses, we suggest cutting back any overhanging branches or climbing vines, weeding garden beds, mowing and edging of lawns and removal of garden waste. Pressure cleaning of driveways and/or paving areas is also a great way to freshen up your property
Keys
Ensure at least 3 sets of keys, security swipe cards & remote controls (if applicable) are available including keys for window locks, garage, letterbox and storage rooms.
Bins
Council waste bins must be made available for the tenant’s use including: general waste bin and two recycling bins. If your property is a house, garden waste bin will be necessary
Appliances
It is a legal requirement that any appliances left at the property for use by the tenant must be maintained in a working condition by the landlord. It is recommended that landlords retain the original warranty and appliance manuals and provide a copy for a tenant to refer to.
Strata or Body Corporate Properties
If the property is a strata unit, villa or townhouse, a copy of the Strata By-Laws should be provided we are legally obliged to provide the tenant with a copy. Should the Strata By-Laws be changed/updated by the Owners Corporation, please provide us with a copy of the changed By-Laws so they can be provided to the tenant. When the property has been leased, we advise the Owners Corporation/Strata Manager of the new occupants details.
Cleaning
It is very important at the commencement of the tenancy, that the property be comprehensively cleaned. We can arrange a pre-tenancy clean quote with one of our recommended cleaners if required. You would be surprised how easy it can be to miss a cupboard or drawer when you are moving out. Carpet cleaning is recommended especially where pets have resided. A tenant is required, at the end of their tenancy, to ensure that the carpet is left in as close as possible the same condition as when they moved in (fair wear and tear excepted). Having the carpets professional cleaned prior to the tenant moving in, makes it simple to prove stains versus blemishes on carpets.
Questions?
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any further questions.