Direct answer: A written tenancy agreement records the property, parties, rent, bond, tenancy type and lawful conditions. It gives both landlord and tenant a shared reference point and is required for residential tenancies covered by the Act.
Core details
Record legal names, contact details, the rental address, start date, tenancy type, rent, payment method, bond and any services included.
Required statements and supporting records
Use the current Tenancy Services template so required statements are not missed. Attach the initial inspection report and retain signed copies.
Conditions must be lawful
Extra conditions cannot remove rights provided by the Act. Clarify responsibilities for lawns, water, shared areas, pets or supplied furnishings only where the condition is lawful.
Review the agreement with the tenant before signing and update it in writing when both parties lawfully agree to a change.
