Guidelines when considering the rental process
Category Advice
Article Provided by Leanne Jooste, B Law Inc. Attorneys
Before applying to rent a property always prepare in advance and consider the following:
- Make sure you can afford the rental payments;
- Ensure that you have enough money for the first month's rental, an upfront deposit which is usually 1 to 2 month's rental in advance, and any additional charges;
- Check your credit score to make sure you are creditworthy;
- Does the location work for you; and
- Have copies of of your ID and, if necessary, your partner or spouse's ID;
- your payslip;
- last 3 months' bank statements;
- proof of residence not older than 3 months; and
- reference from a previous landlord (if you have previously rented a property).
Check the following when contacting an agent regarding a rental property:
- how many months' rent is required for the deposit and when it is due;
- what are the credit check costs per person;
- what are the fees for drawing up the lease agreement; and
- are there any other costs?
Also, check the following:
- are there any other costs to be expected further into the tenancy (exit fees/renewal fees);
- how long is the lease; and when is the property available?
Before signing a lease agreement with either the landlord directly or an agent:
While verbal agreements are legally binding always insist on a lease agreement in writing that clearly sets out;
- the names and addresses of both parties;
- the description of the property;
- the rental amount and reasonable escalation;
- the frequency of rental payments, i.e., monthly, annually;
- the amount of the deposit;
- the lease period;
- the notice period for termination of the contract; and
- all the terms and conditions.
The lease agreement should also include:
- a checklist to note defects in the property;
- a list of any furniture included if the property is rented out furnished; and
- the House Rules.
Find out what maintenance you are responsible for and whether you can make any changes to the property.
Things to remember before moving in and when moving out:
- Do an incoming inspection of the property and document every flaw using a checklist and by taking pictures;
- Record new defects when moving out; and
- Find out when the deposit will be refunded.
De Lucia Group has been servicing the property industry for over 45 years. Contact us to ensure you get the best advice for all your property-related queries. Michael De Lucia - michaeldl@delucia.co.za
- like and view us on Facebook
The information contained herein is not intended to constitute advice and shall only be relied upon by you at your own risk. De Lucia Group does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information posted in this newsletter or otherwise. Any information relied upon by you should be independently verified for accuracy. De Lucia Group reserves the right to change the content distributed or published without prior notice.
Author: De Lucia Group
