23/11/2022
A Clean and Tidy Property
The landlord must provide the premises at the beginning of the tenancy in a 'reasonably clean and tidy condition'. It is always advisable to conduct an inspection, complete with photographs, at the beginning of any tenancy, to record the condition of the property.
During the course of the tenancy, the tenant is generally responsible for keeping the premises 'reasonably clean and tidy'. Keeping the property clean and tidy is important to ensure that no lasting or permanent damage is done to the premises that you may be liable for as a tenant.
Once the tenancy ends, it is the tenant's responsibility to return the property to the condition indicated in the initial property inspection, in order to avoid any cleaning charges or charges for damage. Returning the property in appropriate condition will also streamline the bond refund process.
A Well Maintained Property
It is the landlord’s responsibility to provide and maintain the premises in a 'reasonable state of repair'. What a ‘reasonable state of repair’ means depends on the nature of the rental property, including its age and character. It is important that both parties are in agreement to avoid any miscommunications.
Unless otherwise agreed, or unless the property condition breaches the Health Homes Standards or the RTA 1984, the state the property is in when the tenant views the property, should be the condition they accept the property in. If you as the tenant has an expectation of the property condition, it is always a good idea to discuss these expectations prior to signing any tenancy agreement.
