Before advertising
- Confirm the rental model and management approach.
- Check lender, insurer, council and strata requirements where relevant.
- Review the current jurisdiction guidance and required disclosures.
- Complete safety, minimum-standard and material repair work.
- Document property condition, fixtures, keys and appliance details.
- Set a supportable rent using comparable evidence.
- Prepare accurate copy, current photos and inspection availability.
During advertising
- Publish the fixed rent and accurate inclusions.
- Use one consistent enquiry response process.
- Protect the current occupant’s privacy when taking photos or holding inspections.
- Record listing changes and the dates they were made.
- Do not invite prohibited rent bidding or make discriminatory statements.
Before selecting a tenant
- Use the required application form or process.
- Explain how applicant information will be collected and used.
- Request only necessary and permitted documents.
- Assess every applicant against the same tenancy-related criteria.
- Obtain permission before contacting referees.
- Document the decision without irrelevant sensitive detail.
- Securely dispose of unsuccessful applicant records when required.
Before move-in
- Complete and sign the correct agreement.
- Lodge the bond through the official process.
- Prepare the condition report with dated evidence.
- Provide required guides, disclosures and contact details.
- Confirm rent method, due date and receipt process.
- Record every key and access device.
- Explain urgent repair and routine communication channels.
During the tenancy
- Maintain an accurate rent ledger.
- Acknowledge and triage maintenance requests.
- Use qualified and insured contractors where appropriate.
- Give lawful notice before entry or inspection.
- Record work orders, invoices and completion evidence.
- Track agreement, insurance and safety-review dates.
- Keep communication factual, timely and respectful.
At tenancy end
- Verify the reason, form, notice period and service method before issuing notice.
- Agree the handover process and key return.
- Complete a final inspection against the ingoing report.
- Distinguish damage from fair wear and tear.
- Follow the official bond claim or refund process.
- Close rent, invoice and repair records.
- Retain or destroy records according to applicable requirements.
Sources and further information
Official guidance changes. Check the source for the current rule in your jurisdiction.