Finding a place to live in the NT. What you need to know!
Your Rights as a Tenant
If you rent a property in the NT, you have legal rights. Renting laws in Australia may be different from your home country, so take some time to understand them.
When you find a new place, you have to sign some paperwork, known as a lease or tenancy agreement. Before you sign this, check:
- How long you are agreeing to stay
- How much rent and what bills you’ll need to pay
- Any extra rules or conditions in your contract
If something doesn’t seem right, or you don’t understand part of the agreement, you can ask the real estate agent, or get help from a legal service to understand it.
When you move in, you will get a
condition report. This is a document describing the property’s condition before you moved in. Check this before unpacking your belongings, and
look for marks, stains or broken items and make sure everything works (lights, taps, air conditioning, oven etc). Write down any issues and return the condition report within five business days.
If there is a problem while you are renting, you have a right to ask for repairs. Tell your property manager, real estate or landlord in writing (email, text or letter) so you have proof.
For help, you can contact the
Tenant’s Advice Service on
1800 812 953 or
NT Consumer Affairs on
1800 019 319.
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