Resolving Rental Riddles since 2008

Rental Rage Relief

3 essential documents for landlords and tenant agreements;

-Before letting your home to a stranger, make sure you have the following essential documentation signed and dated;

1. Tenant application form.

Ensure that you have all the current information regarding the prospective tenant’s details, they must be verified.

The application must give the landlord permission to run credit and background checks on the prospective tenant. Contact details of spouse, family and work will be important if the tenant defaults and vacates without paying rent. References from previous landlords and employers should be checked.

2. Lease agreement.

The lease agreement should be up to date, comprehensive and include references to the C.P.Act and the Rental Housing Acts. The terms and conditions, as well as contractual responsibilities of both parties must be understood and agreed on.

A known or trusted witness must sign the lease, as witness, in the presence of the signatory.

3. Inspection Reports.

The owner or agent must, before occupation, conduct an in going inspection with the tenant. It must be documented, signed and dated. Photos with date stamps are essential in proving damage. Take pictures of every room and the exterior.

On termination of the lease, the landlord/agent must conduct an outgoing inspection, preferably when the furniture/belongings are removed. Any damages must be noted and the tenant given the opportunity to “make good” on any repairs, to the owners satisfaction. Both parties may agree on a deduction from the deposit in order to affect repairs, “fair wear and tear excepted”.

The deposit plus interest must be returned within 7 to 14 days of vacating the property, if there is a dispute, within 21 days.

Nic Campher

084 744 0144

rentalragerelief@gmail.com