Does your rental make the grade?
As the owner of a rental, you have a legal obligation to ensure your property is up to par in terms of its safety, security and liveability.Â
And in most states and territories, the rules around these obligations are becoming more stringent.Â
While they can differ depending on the relevant state rental law, there are general overlaps, which begs the question, does your rental make the grade?
Here, we look at your general obligations as a rental property owner when it comes to ensuring your property is up to par…
Structurally sound
It should go without saying that rental properties must be weatherproof and structurally sound.Â
They should also be in good repair, well maintained and repaired when necessary to ensure this remains the case.
This property should also be free from vermin, mould and damp, with both the property owner and rental occupant sharing responsibility for mitigating the risk of pests and mould.
Secure
Every rental occupier has the right to a property that is safe and secure.
By that, we mean the property should have doors and windows that are in good working condition along with functioning locks or latches on all external doors and windows that can be reached without a ladder.
Privacy
In addition to the rules around respecting a renters rights in terms of entry notices and peace and quiet enjoyment, states such as Queensland have also introduced additional housing standards in relation to privacy.
These rules stipulate that a property is required to have curtains or other window coverings in rooms where you might reasonably expect them for privacy, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.
Plumbing and cooking
It is an expectation that a property will have adequate plumbing and drainage, a flushable toilet, hot and cold water, and, if the property has a kitchen, there should be a fully functioning cooktop.
Safety
A safe place to live is a basic and essential requirement of any rental property, and this extends to the home’s electrical connections and wiring, gas supply, general condition and also extras such as pool standards and working fire alarms. Â
Public liability
In addition to ensuring the property is safe, liveable and meets basic housing standards, there should also be insurance protection in the event something goes wrong.
This takes the form of public liability insurance which is the responsibility of the property owner.
Public liability insurance potentially covers an event where someone is injured at the property.
Your property manager can help
A good property manager helps ensure rental owners meet all their legal obligations in providing a property that is safe, structurally sound, secure and remains in good condition and repair.
Their role is to bring any of the above issues to the attention of the owner and have them remedied while protecting the rights of the renter.
In the process, they help ensure the property retains its value and also receives the income it should in the form of rent.
How we can help
Our experienced property managers pride themselves on establishing great relationships with both rental occupiers and owners.
We manage every property as if it were our own and you can learn more about our property management services here.
Alternatively, if you are looking to rent a property, you can view the properties we currently have available here.
