Housing & tenancy · Newcomer, Family, Worker
Before signing a tenancy or flatting agreement
Published
Reviewed · Next review
Know whether you are a tenant or flatmate and read the agreement before signing.
A tenancy agreement sets out what the landlord and tenant have agreed. It must be in writing, and the landlord must provide a signed copy before the tenancy starts. Tenancy Services says the Residential Tenancies Act can still apply without a formal written agreement. Read every term and seek advice about anything unclear.
The official page lists required agreement information and statements, including rent, bond and healthy homes information. Agreements between tenants or homeowners and their flatmates are not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act. Tenancy Services recommends a written record of what the parties agree and provides a flat-sharing template.
Key facts
- Landlords must give tenants a copy of the signed tenancy agreement before the tenancy starts.Sources: Tenancy agreements
- Agreements between tenants or homeowners and flatmates are not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act.Sources: Tenancy agreements
Official sources
- Tenancy agreements
Tenancy Services · Accessed
Kislap publishes this resource for general information only. Nothing here is immigration, legal, financial, tax, medical, employment, or other professional advice; check official sources and speak with a qualified professional before acting.
Review history (1)
Revision 1 ·
Initial tenancy review. Distinguished tenants from flatmates; notice periods and monetary limits left to official rules.