What do I need to know about renting a house?

Owners advertise houses and flats for rent in newspapers and at real estate offices. The staff members of real estate offices will assist you find, inspect and decide on a suitable house or a flat to rent. You may need to supply some paper work before you can rent a property. You will be required to pay rent in advance. The first payment will include a bond that is refundable at the end of the rental. A lease is an agreement to rent housing. It is a legal contract. If you have, doubts or concerns about a lease seek legal advice before signing the contract.

As a tenant, you have rights and obligations. You can get more information on rights and obligations that apply in each state or territory from the government website in your state.

For more information about renting in a particular state or territory
See:
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia