Tenants FAQ

Here are answers to the frequently asked questions by new tenants.

  1. Do I need to sign a tenancy agreement?
  2. Do I need to provide a separate address?
  3. Whats the difference between periodic and fixed term tenancies?
  4. Do I have to pay a bond?
  5. What happens to my bond if I move to another rental?
  6. How do I pay my rent?
  7. Are there any conditions of tenancy?
  8. What do I need to do if I wish to end the tenancy?
1. Do I need to sign a tenancy agreement?

Yes you have to complete and sign a Tenancy Agreement. You do this after we have found you a home and agreed on terms and conditions. It is the written agreement between the tenant and the landlord. This agreement includes a Property Inspection Report that both parties sign. Both parties must keep a copy of this agreement.

2. Do I need to provide a separate address?

Yes, you must provide an Address for Service separate from the address of the rental property. This is an address where notices and other documents related to the tenancy will be accepted by you. The address for service cannot be a post office box.

3. Whats the difference between periodic and fixed term tenancies?

There are two main types of tenancy - Periodic and Fixed Term.

  • Periodic. This tenancy is not for a specific term. It continues until the tenant or landlord gives the correct notice to end it. Periodic tenancies are the most common type.
  • Fixed Term Tenancy. This tenancy ends on a specific date set down in the written Tenancy Agreement. There is very limited provision for either the landlord or the tenant to end the tenancy on an earlier date. In most circumstances either party will need to convince the Tribunal that hardship will result if the tenancy continues. 
4. Do I have to pay a bond?

Yes, generally you will have to pay a bond. Most property owners collect a bond as part of the tenancy agreement. The bond is held by Tenancy Services. Bonds will typically range from two weeks of rent up to the  legal maximum of four weeks of rent. Housing People handle all bond payments.

5. What happens to my bond if I move to another rental?

Your old landlord can have the bond transferred to your new rental saving you the need to wait for a bond refund. Ask about a Bond Transfer form or alternatively a Change of Landlord/Agent form if your rental is changing owners but you are staying put. 

6. How do I pay my rent?

All rents must be paid to our (HPL) bank account by Automatic Payment (AP).  Rent will be either one or two weeks in advance. The only exception to this is the first rent payment that needs to be in cash or a cheque at the start of the tenancy.

7. Are there any conditions of tenancy?

Housing People have a standard Conditions of Tenancy. These are incorporated into the Tenancy Agreement for ease of reference by tenants. These simple house rules avoid disputes in the future.

Be sure to get a copy and that you have read and understood it before you sign a Tenancy Agreement. Our mobile manager can help you with any questions. You can download and review our Conditions of Tenancy PDF document.

8. What do I need to do if I wish to end the tenancy?

The Act states that tenants must notify their landlord in writting of their intention to end the tenancy. Tenants must give the landlord 21 days notice. Extra days must be allowed if the letter is posted.

On the final day of the tenancy the tenant must have the property clean and tidy and ready for a final inspection by mid day. All keys supplied must be returned. Be aware that it is the tenants responsibility to clean all windows inside and out, to clean the stove and have all carpets cleaned by a commercial carpet cleaner.