Paying your rent
What are the various ways in which I can pay my rent?
As a general rule, real estate agents are reluctant to accept cash as this creates a security risk. The choice of methods to pay your rent usually includes electronic payment cards, money order, direct debit or bank cheques. Exact details of payment methods may vary from state to state or country, so please discuss the options available with your LJ Hooker property investment manager so you can establish the most convenient method for your particular circumstances.
What should I do if I am temporarily unable to pay my rent?
The most important thing to do is to contact the agent (or the owner if you are not renting through an agent) as soon as you are aware there will be a problem with your rent payment. Simply ignoring the problem will not make it go away and will very likely cause the agent or the owner to become concerned and commence breach and/or eviction proceedings.
If your inability to pay the rent is only a temporary matter, you and the agent or owner may be able to come to a mutually convenient payment plan to assist you bring your rental up to date.
Be aware that you may continue to receive breach notices while your rent is in arrears but your agent or owner may agree to void these once your rental is up to date. Again, we stress the importance of communication. Let the agent or the owner know what is going on, particularly in regards to any further changes to your circumstances.
What documents should I, as a tenant, be given before I move into the premises?
The documentation required to be given to you at the time of sign-up differs slightly from state to state and country. However, the following items are required in most jurisdictions:
- Information booklet relating to renting in your state
- Copy of the Tenancy Agreement
- Copy of the Bond Lodgement form
- Original and copies of the Condition Report - to be checked, completed and signed, then returned to the office in the required time frame
- Receipt for initial rent amount, lease fees and bond monies
- Photocopy of all access keys and remote controls (if any)
- Emergency contact number details
Your LJ Hooker property investment manager will be able to offer you additional information applicable to your particular circumstances. Help is also available from various bodies so, depending on the state or country where the property you want to rent is located, please visit the Department of Business and Housing website
