It is extremely important that tenants understand their obligations in relation to a rental property. By not fulfilling their obligations it is possible that tenants may lose their bond.

A tenant must:

Pay the rent on time.

Ensure the property is used for residential purposes for the majority of the time.

Keep the property up to a reasonable standard of cleanliness.

Inform the landlord of any damage as soon as possible.

Pay for the repair of any deliberate or careless damage caused by the tenant.

Comply with all conditions in the Tenancy Agreement.

At the end of the tenancy remove their belongings; leave the property in a reasonable state of cleanliness; return keys or any like devices; and leave the chattels provided by the landlord.

Allow the landlord reasonable access to the property.

Pay for all electricity, gas and telephone used by the tenant.

The tenant may also be required to cover the cost of water depending on whether it is provided for in the Tenancy Agreement. A tenant is responsible for water charges if the:

• house or flat has a separate water meter, and
• tenant’s written tenancy agreement states that, at the start of the tenancy, the tenant will pay for metered water provided to the tenancy, and
• water supplier charges for water provided to the premises on a metered basis.
  (from Department of Building and Housing)

A tenant must not:

Damage or allow others to damage the property, whether deliberately or carelessly.

Use or allow others to use the property for any unlawful activities.

Interfere with the neighbours peace, or comfort.