Tentant FAQs
Is income eligibility based on current or previous financial year earnings?
Income eligibility is based on your current year’s earnings. Specifically, it is calculated using the TOTAL household income earned over the last three months. Additionally, we conduct an eligibility check every 12 months after you begin renting to ensure you continue to meet the criteria.
What is a Residential Tenancy Agreement?
A Residential Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding contract between a renter and a rental provider that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties. It is important to carefully review the agreement before signing to ensure that you fully understand its terms and conditions. If you have any questions or need clarification, your property manager will be happy to assist you.
What is a bond?
A bond is a security deposit paid by the renter at the beginning of a rental agreement. It is held by the ACT Revenue Office and must be paid directly to them using the specified BSB and account number provided. The bond serves as financial protection for the rental provider and is refunded to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, provided there are no outstanding payments, no damage to the property, and the property is returned in good condition as per the entry report (including proper cleaning).
The bond amount is equal to four (4) weeks’ rent and must be paid before accessing the property and receiving the keys. If you are eligible for a bond loan through the ACT Housing Department, please inform your property manager in advance. For more information or to check eligibility and apply, you can use this link:
How do I make rental payments?
Upon becoming successful in your application, HomeGround will send you an email in which it states where to pay your rent – we require two (2) weeks upfront, prior to handover of keys. Rent is then due to be paid in advance weekly, fortnightly or calendar monthly thereafter (pending on your preference). Rent is paid via BPAY with a unique reference number. If you have any difficulties paying rent, contact your property manager as soon as possible to discuss your options.
What is routine inspection and how often is it done?
A routine inspection is a standard check conducted by property managers to ensure the property is well-maintained and to identify any required repairs or maintenance before they escalate into significant issues. With HomeGround, the first routine is conducted within three (3) months of the start of your tenancy and then approximately every six (6) months thereafter. Your Property Manager will notify you of an upcoming inspection, giving two weeks’ advance notice. This process helps maintain the property’s condition and address any concerns in a timely manner.
What if we lost the key or locked ourselves out?
In the event of losing your key or locking yourself out, please get in touch with the property manager or our office as soon as possible via phone and email. You may collect the spare key set held by the agency, which must be returned within 24 hours. If a locksmith is required, the tenant will be responsible for the cost. Please ensure you bring a valid ID for verification when collecting the spare key. For additional details regarding lost keys, kindly refer to the Welcome Booklet provided upon your move-in.
How do I report repairs and maintenance?
To report repairs and maintenance, please contact your property manager directly via phone or email. It’s important that all repair and maintenance requests are provided in writing and include supporting photos or videos to assist in prompt resolution.
For urgent or emergency repairs outside regular hours or during weekends, you can call our emergency contact number at 1300 577 773.
I am moving out. What do I need to do before I vacate?
If you are planning to move out, it is essential to notify your property manager in writing about your intent to vacate, including the date you plan to end your lease. Please reach out to your property manager as soon as possible to begin this process.
You have specific rights and responsibilities when vacating the property, and your property manager will be available to address any questions or concerns you may have.
I am moving in. Can you recommend a good utilities provider?
Welcome to HomeGround Canberra! To make moving into your new home a breeze, we’ve partnered with My Connect. Now that your lease application has been approved, you will receive a call from one of MyConnect’s friendly staff to save you time, effort, and money. MyConnect offers services for electricity, gas, water, insurance, internet, phone, pay TV, and truck hire.
To find out more, visit myconnect.com.au/story.
Are all properties listed on your website affordable rent or social rent properties?
No, not all properties listed are affordable properties – properties that are within the Affordable Housing Scheme will have a disclosure on the advertisement and a criterion by which you may or may not be eligible for.
Get started with HomeGround Real Estate Canberra