Being well-informed is key to a smooth renting experience. Understanding what to expect and how to handle potential issues can save you from future headaches. Here are five important things every tenant should know:
Landlords and rental agencies typically assess your reliability based on three main factors: credit score, references and employment history.
You can improve your tenant status by focusing on the following:
Enhance Your Credit Score: Pay your accounts on time, and pay all your accounts. A good credit score demonstrates financial responsibility, making you a more desirable tenant.
Gather Positive References: Always be a good tenant and leave a great impression on others. Positive references from previous landlords will vouch for your character and reliability.
Don’t go from job to job: Landlords like to see stability in your employment history and it never looks good if you were only working at a job for three months. Try to ensure that you stay at the same company for at least a year before you seek a new job.
It might be tempting to quickly sign your lease agreement, especially if you’re feeling pressured, but take the time to read it carefully. Your lease agreement outlines crucial aspects such as:
Compliance with legal requirements
Breakdown of costs
Terms of your rental agreement
Deposit handling
Maintenance responsibilities
House rules
Renewal terms
Understanding these details can prevent future disputes and ensure a clear understanding of your obligations and your rights.
When moving into a rental property, agencies usually conduct an initial inspection to note any existing damages. This helps prevent unfair charges for pre-existing issues when you move out. However, it’s wise to:
Take Your Own Photos: Document any damages yourself to ensure nothing is missed.
Keep Detailed Records: Note the condition of the property and its contents to have evidence in case of disputes.
As a tenant, you are protected under the Rental Housing Act and related legislation. These laws are designed to:
Promote rental housing availability
Ensure the rental market functions properly
Establish Rental Housing Tribunals
Define the powers and duties of these Tribunals
Provide principles for conflict resolution in the rental sector
Facilitate healthy tenant-landlord relationships
Being aware of these rights can empower you to address any issues confidently.
Maintaining your rental property in a good condition not only fosters a good relationship with your landlord or agency but it also minimizes deductions from your deposit when you move out. It will also ensure that you can get a good reference which will help you with your next rental.
Your key responsibilities include:
Paying Rent: Paying on time according to when your rent is due.
Proper Maintenance: Keeping the property in good condition to avoid unnecessary repair costs.
Respecting House Rules: Adhering to the rules set out in your lease agreement helps maintain harmony and avoid conflicts.
By following these tips, you can ensure a positive renting experience in Johannesburg and you can also establish yourself as a reliable and a good tenant so that you have access to any property you may want to rent in the future.
Being proactive and informed not only enhances your status as a tenant but it also protects your rights and interests throughout your rental journey.
If you have any questions about renting an apartment in Illovo please contact us and we will answer any questions you may have.
