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:

Help to pay your rental bond – ACT Government

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.

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. In HomeGround first routine is conducted in three (3) months after the start of your tenancy and then approximately every six (6) months thereafter. Your Property Manager will notify you of an upcoming inspection with at least two weeks’ advance notice. This process helps maintain the property’s condition and address any concerns in a timely manner.

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. 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.

To report repairs and maintenance, please contact your property manager directly via phone or email. Alternatively, you can submit your request through our website using the maintenance request form. 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.

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. Alternatively, you can report your move-out plans via our website using notice of intention to vacate form, found on our homepage. 

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 https://www.myconnect.com.au/story.

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.

Yes, we can assist with payments for rates, land tax, body corporate fees, and water. Upon signing the management agency agreement, you will receive a link to the necessary redirection forms. Once the invoices are sent to our agency, we will process the payments on your behalf. Electronic copies of these invoices will also be attached to your statements for your records.

Yes, this will be emailed at the end of each financial year. You can also request a copy at any time of the year.

Assigned property manager will be your main point of contact. You will receive their direct line and email. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via phone on 1300 208 828 or via email on  enquiries@homegroundcanberra.com.au.

A member of our team will manage your property should your dedicated property manager be on leave. You will never be without a point of contact and these details will be emailed to you with plenty on notice were possible. 

You will find all the information required on the following links:

• Incentives to provide rental housing – ACT Government
• Exemptions | ACT Revenue Office – Website

For more information feel free to contact us directly.

Yes, for more information on management fees and services please contact our office on enquiries@homegroundcanberra.com.au or call us on 1300 208 828.

Landlord insurance is an essential safeguard for property owners. It provides coverage for potential risks, such as loss of rental income and damage caused by tenants, which can otherwise result in significant financial setbacks. By having landlord insurance, landlords can protect their investment, minimise unforeseen risks, and enjoy peace of mind. It’s a proactive step to ensure stability and security. Consider reaching out to your current insurance provider to explore the options available and find a policy that meets your needs.

Rental payments can be collected on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis, depending on the tenant’s preferred payment schedule. However, it is mandatory for rent to be paid in advance, with the first payment due on the start date of the tenancy agreement. This ensures a smooth start to the tenancy and maintains clarity in financial arrangements between tenants and landlords.

We process landlord payments twice a month: mid-month, typically on the 15th, and at the end of the month, on the last day. Landlords have the flexibility to choose whether to receive payments twice or once a month. Upon signing the Management Agency Agreement, you can inform your property manager of your preferred payment schedule.

Please note that if the payment date falls on a weekend or public holiday, the payment may be processed one or two days earlier. This ensures timely and consistent payments.

Your property manager will inspect your investment approximately three (3) months into the tenancy and then every six (6) months going forward. This is in line with the Residential Tenancies Act (1997) Allowance for General Inspections. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure that the property is being well maintained and to assess any routine maintenance requirements. Your Property Manager will send a copy of the report with notes on any maintenances that may be required.

During a tenancy – ACT Government please refer to this website for more information on urgent repairs.

A smoke alarm installed at premises subject to a residential tenancy agreement must comply with Australian Standard 3786, be functional and be installed on or near the ceiling and may be battery operated or hard-wired. A smoke alarm must be installed in the premises subject to a residential agreement:  

• in each storey of the premises containing a bedroom. 
• in every corridor or hallway associated with a bedroom; and  
• if there is no corridor or hallway—between each part of the premises containing a bedroom and the remainder of the premises; and  
• in each storey of the premises not containing a bedroom. 
• A compliance certificate needs to be supplied annually. 

A fee may be charged subject to the management fee you choose to sign up with. There is a notice period of 30 days that needs to be provided unless mutually agreed upon.

Yes, our leasing agent will narrow down the most suitable candidates and you will have a say as to who you wish to approve for tenancy.

Please see link on notices required – Ending a tenancy – ACT Government – This link also provides information on notices that the landlord can provide.

Yes, rent reviews are conducted on an annual basis. Rent increases are suggested based on Consumer Price Index (CPI) data and aligned as closely as possible with the intended dates for issuing a notice. Tenants are required to receive a written notice of rent increase at least 8 weeks in advance. It’s important to note that rent can only be increased once within a 12-month period, ensuring transparency and compliance with regulations.

Yes, if the property has a separate water meter that can be accurately measured the tenant will be billed for water usage.