Legalities
Renting is a legal arrangement. As a tenant, you have rights and responsibilities under the law. The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) is an independent organisation which can give you advice and help you understand your rights and responsibilities. The RTA website has a lot of information and contact details www.rta.qld.gov.au.
If you are renting with housemates, you should ensure that all of your names are on the lease (rental contract). This will protect your rights, but be aware that if your housemate leaves before the end of the contract, you are still liable to meet the obligations under the lease, including full rental payment.
If you are moving into an existing share house, make sure you understand whether or not bills (water, electricity, gas, telephone) are included in the weekly rental amount. Usually you would pay extra for bills, in addition to the rent. You will need to discuss with your housemates when and how to pay your share of the bills.
Home security
You should avoid keeping large amounts of cash and valuables at home, and take out “contents insurance” on any items which are valuable. For more information about keeping your home secure and safe, see the information on this site about having a safe home.
Last updated 19 October 2007
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