Understanding Your Lease Agreement: What Every Tenant Needs to Know

With so many changes to legislation in the fast-paced rental market, understanding your lease agreement is more important than ever. A clear and modern lease helps establish expectations and protects both tenants and landlords. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the finer details of your lease agreement:

Five Key Points to Focus On in Your Lease Agreement:

1. Lease Term and Flexibility
   Flexible lease terms are becoming more common in 2025.  While traditional leases are still the norm, some landlords are offering month-to-month options or even shorter lease durations! If you’re uncertain about your future plans, look for a lease that offers flexibility in case you need to move out earlier than expected and reduce your chances of being penalised. 

2. Rent Payment Details and Digital Options
   Rent payment methods are increasingly moving online. Check if your lease offers a digital portal for paying rent. Many landlords and managing agents now offer automated payments, reducing the chance of late fees. Additionally, make sure you know exactly when rent is due and how payments should be made (e.g., transfer, app or bank deposit).

3. Security Deposit and Refund Process
   The security deposit rules rarely change! Damage the property and expect this to be taken out of your deposit. Regarding deposit refunds many leases now specify how quickly you should expect to receive your deposit back and the steps you need to take (like submitting a move-out checklist) to ensure a full refund. Most landlords will use an inspection report to document conditions before move-in and move out and some now are moving towards tech-driven inspection apps.

4. Maintenance Requests and Smart Features
   Technology has made submitting maintenance requests easier than ever. Make sure your lease includes information on how to submit issues—many landlords now have apps or online portals for requests. Additionally, properties with smart home features (e.g., thermostats, lighting, security systems) might require you to accept specific guidelines regarding their use and maintenance.

5. Rules on Pets, Guests, and Common Areas
   Pet policies are evolving, with more properties becoming pet-friendly in 2025, but always double-check the rules in your lease. New clauses may include breed or size restrictions, pet deposits, and even pet insurance. Similarly, the rules around guests have changed, with some properties offering more flexibility on overnight visitors or short stays. Be clear on these expectations to avoid misunderstandings.