What Should You Check Before Renting a House in Australia?

Renting your next home is exciting. But rushing through inspections or skipping important checks can lead to expensive mistakes and months of frustration.

Australia’s rental market moves fast. Properties disappear within days. Competition pushes renters to make quick decisions. But speed shouldn’t mean skipping essential checks that protect your money and wellbeing.

This guide provides a complete checklist for what to check before renting a house in Australia. You’ll learn what to inspect during property viewings, what lease terms to review, and what safety standards to verify—before you sign anything or hand over your bond.

Why a Renter’s Checklist Matters in Australia

Australia’s rental market is competitive and complex. Each state has different tenancy laws, safety requirements, and dispute processes. Missing critical checks during your rental search can cost you thousands in lost bonds, unexpected repairs, or legal disputes.

According to Domain data from 2024, rental vacancy rates across major Australian cities remained below 2%, creating intense competition for quality properties. Renters often view properties in groups of 20-30 people and feel pressured to apply immediately without proper inspection.

This pressure leads to common problems:

• Signing leases without reading terms carefully
• Overlooking maintenance issues that become your responsibility
• Missing safety violations that put you at risk
• Paying bonds without proper documentation
• Accepting properties that don’t meet minimum standards

Each Australian state has minimum rental standards. Properties must be weatherproof, structurally sound, and include working facilities. But enforcement varies, and problems often only surface after you move in.

A systematic checklist protects you. It helps you assess properties consistently, ask the right questions, and identify red flags before committing to a lease.

What to Check Before Renting a House in Australia (Your Complete Checklist)

Use this comprehensive checklist during every property inspection. Take photos, make notes, and don’t rush. A thorough inspection now prevents problems later.

Physical Inspection of the Property

Walk through every room systematically. Test everything. Document issues in writing and with photos.

Water and plumbing:

• Turn on all taps—check water pressure and drainage
• Flush toilets and check for leaks
• Look under sinks for water damage or mould
• Test hot water system (ask how old it is)
• Check for water stains on ceilings and walls
• Inspect bathroom and laundry for proper ventilation

Electrical systems:

• Test all light switches and power points
• Check if there are enough power outlets in each room
• Look for exposed or damaged wiring
• Verify switchboard looks modern and safe
• Test doorbells and intercoms if applicable

Heating and cooling:

• Test air conditioning units (ask about servicing history)
• Check heaters work properly
• Look for ceiling fans and their condition
• Ask about energy efficiency ratings

Walls, floors, and ceilings:

• Check for cracks, holes, or major damage
• Look for signs of dampness or mould (especially in bathrooms, laundry, and bedrooms)
• Inspect carpet condition and stains
• Check floorboards for damage or loose sections
• Look at ceiling condition and water stains

Windows and doors:

• Open and close all windows—check they lock securely
• Test all door locks and keys
• Check for broken glass or damaged frames
• Look for gaps that let in drafts or insects
• Verify fly screens are intact

Kitchen appliances:

• Test stove, oven, and rangehood
• Check dishwasher runs properly (if included)
• Test refrigerator (if included in lease)
• Inspect cupboards and drawers
• Check for adequate storage space

Safety equipment:

• Verify smoke alarms in all required locations (compulsory in every state)
• Test smoke alarms work
• Check for carbon monoxide detectors if gas heating present
• Look for fire extinguisher or fire blanket
• Verify pool fencing meets standards (if property has pool)

NSW Fair Trading and Consumer Affairs Victoria publish detailed minimum standards requirements. Properties must meet these standards before being leased. If you spot violations, report them before signing.

Location and Neighbourhood Factors

The property might look perfect inside, but the location determines your daily life quality.

Transport and accessibility:

• Distance to public transport (train stations, bus stops)
• Parking availability (street parking restrictions, garage space)
• Travel time to work or study during peak hours
• Access to major roads or highways

Neighbourhood characteristics:

• Walk around at different times—morning, evening, and weekends
• Check noise levels (traffic, nearby businesses, bars)
• Visit at night to assess street lighting and safety
• Talk to neighbours if possible about the area

Crime and safety:

• Check crime statistics on your state police website
• Look for adequate street lighting
• Assess visibility and security of entry points
• Check if the area is prone to antisocial behaviour

Amenities and services:

• Distance to supermarkets, shops, and medical services
• Nearby schools if you have children
• Parks, gyms, and recreational facilities
• Cafés, restaurants, and community spaces

Environmental risks:

• Check flood risk maps on your council website
• Verify bushfire risk zones (particularly relevant in regional areas)
• Look for industrial sites or pollution sources nearby
• Research council development plans that might affect the area

Data.gov.au provides access to flood maps, planning zones, and environmental data across Australia. Spend 30 minutes researching before applying for a property.

A great house in a poor location creates daily stress. A good house in a great location improves your quality of life immediately.

Lease Terms and Legal Details

The lease agreement legally binds you for months or years. Read every clause carefully before signing.

Essential lease terms to review:

• Lease length — Fixed term (6 or 12 months) or periodic (month-to-month)
• Rent amount — Weekly or monthly, and when it’s due
• Rent increase provisions — How much notice required, maximum increases allowed
• Bond amount — Usually four weeks’ rent (must be lodged with state authority)
• Maintenance responsibilities — What landlord covers vs what you cover
• Pets policy — Whether pets allowed and any restrictions
• Subletting rules — Can you sublet if needed
• Garden and lawn maintenance — Who’s responsible
• Break lease conditions — Costs if you leave early
• Landlord access rights — Notice requirements for inspections

Every Australian state requires bonds to be lodged with government authorities within specific timeframes:

• NSW: Rental Bond Board (Fair Trading NSW)
• Victoria: Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA)
• Queensland: Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
• South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS)
• Western Australia: Bond Administrator
• Tasmania: Rental Deposit Authority
• ACT: ACT Revenue Office
• Northern Territory: Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities

Never pay bond directly to landlords without official lodgement. This protects your money and ensures proper dispute processes if needed.

Ask these questions before signing:

• Has the bond from previous tenants been returned? (Delays might indicate disputes)
• Who handles maintenance requests and how quickly?
• Are there any planned renovations or major works?
• What’s included in rent (water, internet, gardening)?
• Can you make minor modifications (picture hooks, gardens)?

Financial Checks Before You Sign a Lease

Rent is just one cost. Understanding the full financial picture prevents budget stress and missed payments.

Upfront costs when renting:

• First rent payment (usually 2-4 weeks in advance)
• Bond (typically 4 weeks’ rent)
• Pet bond (if applicable, usually 2-4 weeks’ additional rent)
• Connection fees for utilities (electricity, gas, internet)
• Removalist costs
• Renters insurance (highly recommended)

Ongoing weekly/monthly costs:

• Rent
• Electricity and gas
• Water usage (in some states)
• Internet and phone
• Renters insurance
• Council rates (rare, usually landlord pays)
• Strata fees (if applicable, usually landlord pays)

According to CoreLogic data from early 2025, median weekly rents across major Australian cities were:

Note: These are approximate ranges. Prices vary significantly by suburb and property quality.

Financial preparation checklist:

• Calculate 30% of your gross income—rent should ideally stay below this
• Save enough for bond plus first month’s rent plus $2,000 emergency buffer
• Get renters insurance quotes before moving in
• Set up utility accounts at least one week before moving
• Budget for furniture and essential items if unfurnished
• Account for transportation costs if moving further from work

Renters insurance costs $15-$40 per month and covers your belongings against theft, fire, and water damage. Landlord insurance only covers the building—not your possessions.

Many Australians skip renters insurance to save money, then lose thousands when disasters strike. Don’t be one of them.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant

Australian tenancy laws balance landlord and tenant rights. Knowing what you’re entitled to—and what you must provide—prevents disputes.

Your rights as a tenant:

• Live in a property that meets minimum standards (safe, weatherproof, functioning facilities)
• Privacy and quiet enjoyment (landlords must give proper notice before entry)
• Proper notice before rent increases or lease changes
• Have repairs completed in reasonable timeframes
• Receive bond back if property returned in good condition
• Challenge unfair lease terms or rent increases
• Protection from discrimination and harassment
• Break lease in specific circumstances (domestic violence, uninhabitable property)

Your responsibilities as a tenant:

• Pay rent on time and in full
• Keep property reasonably clean and maintained
• Report maintenance issues promptly
• Allow landlord access with proper notice
• Not damage property beyond normal wear and tear
• Follow strata rules if in apartment complex
• Not disturb neighbours unreasonably
• Return property in similar condition (allowing for normal wear)

According to Tenants Victoria and Tenants’ Union of NSW, most disputes arise from unclear expectations about maintenance, cleanliness standards, and what constitutes “normal wear and tear.”

State-specific resources:

• NSW: fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
• Victoria: consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting
• Queensland: rta.qld.gov.au
• South Australia: cbs.sa.gov.au/rental-housing
• Western Australia: commerce.wa.gov.au/consumer-protection/renting-home
• Tasmania: cbos.tas.gov.au/topics/housing/renting
• ACT: accesscanberra.act.gov.au/app/home/renting
• Northern Territory: nt.gov.au/property/renting

Bookmark your state’s tenancy authority website. It’s your primary resource for questions and disputes.

Hidden Red Flags to Watch Out For

Some warning signs aren’t obvious during quick inspections. Stay alert for these red flags that indicate potential problems.

Property condition red flags:

• Strong air freshener or perfume smells (might hide mould or pet odours)
• Fresh paint in isolated areas (could cover mould or damage)
• Furniture blocking walls or floors during inspection
• Excessive clutter preventing proper inspection
• Damp or musty smells in rooms or cupboards
• Black spots or discolouration on walls (mould)
• Warped floorboards or soft spots when walking
• Signs of pest infestations (droppings, holes, nests)

Landlord and agent red flags:

• Reluctance to provide references or landlord details
• Pressure to sign lease immediately without proper inspection
• Requests for cash bond payments
• No written lease agreement offered
• Unlicensed property manager (check state licensing registers)
• Unclear answers about maintenance responsibilities
• Property advertised well below market rent (potential scam)
• Landlord asking for bond before you’ve seen property in person

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reported a 23% increase in rental scams during 2024. Scammers advertise properties they don’t own, collect bonds and disappear.

Top 5 rental red flags in Australia:

1. Rent significantly below market rate — If it seems too good to be true, it probably is
2. Landlord overseas and can’t meet in person — Common scam tactic
3. Requests to pay before inspection — Never pay without seeing property
4. Poor communication or vague answers — Professional agents respond promptly
5. No official lease agreement — All rentals need written leases

Always verify property ownership through title searches if suspicious. Visit properties in person. Never transfer money overseas or to personal accounts.

If a listing seems suspicious, check it against the actual real estate agent’s website. Scammers often copy legitimate listings, change contact details, and lower prices to attract victims.

Inspecting Safety and Compliance Standards

Australian rental properties must meet minimum safety standards. These requirements vary by state but generally cover similar areas.

Smoke alarms (mandatory in all states):

• Must be installed on each level of the property
• Required in hallways connecting bedrooms
• Must be less than 10 years old (varies by state)
• Hardwired or long-life battery types required
• Test alarms work during inspection

Electrical safety:

• Switchboard must be modern and compliant
• No exposed or damaged wiring
• Power points must be secure and functioning
• Electrical safety certificate (required in some states for pre-1950s properties)

Gas safety:

• Gas appliances must be safe and properly installed
• Gas certificate required every 2 years in Victoria
• Check for gas smells or damaged connections
• Carbon monoxide detectors recommended near gas appliances

Pool and spa safety (if applicable):

• Compliant pool fencing (minimum 1.2m height, self-closing gates)
• Pool registered with local council
• CPR signage visible
• Gates and latches functioning properly

Structural safety:

• No major cracks in walls or ceilings
• Stairs and balconies have secure railings
• Windows on upper levels have locks or safety catches
• Roof appears weatherproof with no major damage

Minimum standards (Victoria example):

Victoria introduced minimum rental standards in 2020, requiring:

• Fixed heating in main living area
• Window coverings in bedrooms and living areas
• Adequate natural or mechanical ventilation
• Kitchen with sink, cooking facilities, and food storage
• Bathroom with toilet, shower/bath, and sink
• Working stove with two burners and oven
• Adequate lighting in bathrooms, toilets, and kitchen

Other states have similar requirements with slight variations. Check your state’s residential tenancies website for specific standards.

Queensland maintains comprehensive rental safety checklists through the RTA, covering electrical, gas, smoke alarms, and pool safety. Request copies of all safety certificates before signing leases.

If a property doesn’t meet minimum standards, you can:

• Request repairs before moving in
• Report violations to your state tenancy authority
• Choose not to proceed with the rental
• Request rent reduction until repairs completed (after moving in)

Never assume “the landlord will fix it after I move in” without written confirmation. Get all maintenance promises in writing before signing.

How to Secure a Good Rental Property in a Competitive Market

Strong rental applications help you stand out in competitive markets. Preparation and presentation matter.

What landlords look for in tenants:

• Stable employment and sufficient income (rent should be 30% or less of income)
• Good rental history with positive references
• Clean rental ledger (no outstanding debts to previous landlords)
• Responsible financial behaviour
• Clear communication and professionalism
• Non-smoking preference (for many landlords)

According to a 2024 Domain survey, landlords rank stable employment as the most important factor when selecting tenants, followed by rental history and references.

Rental application checklist:

• Recent payslips (last 4-6 weeks)
• Employment contract or letter confirming employment
• Bank statements (last 3 months)
• Previous rental references (at least 2)
• Photo ID (driver’s licence or passport)
• Cover letter introducing yourself
• Pet references if you have pets
• Proof of rental insurance or willingness to obtain it

Tips to strengthen your application:

• Apply as soon as possible after viewing (within 24 hours)
• Write a personal cover letter explaining why you want the property
• Include photos of your current rental in excellent condition
• Provide contact details for current and previous landlords
• Offer to pay multiple weeks’ rent in advance (if you can afford it)
• Have references prepared to provide quick responses
• Dress professionally for inspections
• Be friendly but professional with agents
• Follow up politely after submitting application

If you’re a first-time renter:

• Provide character references from employers or teachers
• Offer larger bond if landlord concerned about lack of rental history
• Consider asking parents to co-sign lease
• Provide evidence of savings and financial responsibility
• Explain your situation honestly in cover letter

Be honest in applications. Lying about employment, income, or rental history can result in immediate lease termination if discovered.

After Moving In — Final Steps to Protect Yourself

Your responsibilities don’t end when you get keys. These final steps protect you throughout your tenancy.

Complete the entry condition report thoroughly:

• Walk through property room by room
• Document every mark, stain, scratch, or damage
• Take dated photos and videos of entire property
• Note condition of appliances, fixtures, and fittings
• Write detailed descriptions on condition report
• Submit within timeframe specified in lease (usually 3-7 days)
• Keep copies of all documentation

The entry condition report is your most important document. It proves the property’s condition when you moved in and protects you when you move out.

Landlords often dispute bond refunds based on “damage” that existed before tenants moved in. Your thorough documentation prevents these disputes.

Essential post-move tasks:

• Set up electricity and gas accounts in your name
• Arrange internet connection (can take 2-4 weeks)
• Update your address with:
  • Electoral roll
  • Driver’s licence
  • Medicare
  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Employer and Centrelink (if applicable)
  • Australia Post mail redirection
• Get renters insurance activated
• Store important documents safely (lease, condition report, inspection photos)
• Create a maintenance issues folder for ongoing documentation

Communicate effectively with landlords:

• Use email or written communication for all maintenance requests
• Take photos of maintenance issues when reporting them
• Keep records of all correspondence
• Follow up requests if no response within reasonable time
• Be polite but firm about repair obligations
• Document dates of all communications

Regular maintenance routine:

• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Clean air conditioning filters quarterly
• Report maintenance issues immediately
• Keep property clean and well-maintained
• Document any damage as soon as it occurs
• Take photos before and after any incidents

The Residential Tenancies Authority in Queensland provides downloadable Entry Condition Report templates. Most states offer similar resources through their tenancy authority websites.

Good record-keeping prevents most bond disputes. Treat it as part of renting, not optional paperwork.

Conclusion

Renting a home in Australia requires careful attention and proper preparation. Using this checklist for what to check before renting a house in Australia protects your finances, rights, and peace of mind.

Inspect properties thoroughly. Read lease agreements carefully. Document everything with photos and written records. Understand your rights and responsibilities under your state’s tenancy laws. Ask questions before signing anything.

A systematic approach helps you identify quality properties, avoid problem landlords, and prevent costly disputes. The time you invest in proper checks pays off through months or years of comfortable, stress-free renting.

Before your next property inspection, download this checklist and take it with you. If you encounter problems during your tenancy, contact your state’s residential tenancies authority for guidance. They provide free advice and dispute resolution services for all Australian renters.