Move-in checklist

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Before you apply

Do this while you can still walk away.

Visit in person. Photos hide traffic, aircraft noise, mould, stairwells, and the real walk from the car park.
Travel the trip you would actually take, at the time you would leave. A Sunday afternoon bus is not a Monday 7am bus.
Ask the date rent last increased for this property. In Queensland that date usually has to be at least 12 months before the next increase, and it has to be written in the agreement.
Ask whether you will be billed for water use. Fixed water charges are a different thing. Check the current RTA rule before you agree to a water clause.
If you need a car, confirm a bay that is part of the tenancy. “Street parking nearby” is not a bay.

The agreement is the document. The ad is not.

Read the whole General tenancy agreement (Form 18a), including special terms. A special term cannot take away a right the Act gives you.
Check the bond is within the legal maximum (4 weeks’ rent for a general tenancy) and that it will be lodged with the RTA, not held by the agent.
Check the agreement shows the date of the last rent increase, unless this property is being rented for the first time or the owner is exempt.
Find the emergency repair contact and the nominated repairer. They are supposed to be named in the agreement before you need them at 9pm.
If there is a break-lease clause, read what it asks you to pay. Leaving a fixed term early can still cost money. Keep a full copy of everything you sign.

The entry condition report is what a bond dispute is argued against. Fill it in slowly.

Complete the entry condition report and return it within 7 days after the later of the day you move in and the day you receive it. If you don’t return it, you are taken to agree with the description. Failing to complete it is also an offence.
Photograph every room, inside cupboards, the ceilings, and the meters. Keep the files with the date.
Write electricity, gas, and water meter readings on the condition report.
Count keys, fobs, remotes, and mailbox keys against the list you were given.
Test the stove, hot water, air-conditioning, windows, and locks. Note anything that fails.
Note that smoke alarms are in place. Don’t remove them. Keeping them compliant sits with the owner; report faults in writing.
Walk the yard, balcony, and any storage cage that is part of the agreement. Note damage before you move furniture in front of it.

Small admin now saves a bond argument later.

Watch for the RTA acknowledgement of the bond, by email or post. Keep the bond number with the agreement.
Keep the agreement, condition report, photos, and bond number in one place you can find.
Arrange contents insurance if you want your belongings covered. The owner’s policy is not yours.
Redirect mail, and update the address you use for banks and other bills.
If the condition report missed something, tell the manager in writing while it is still early.