Prior to you rent out a room…

According to Australia’s largest share accommodation web site, Flatmates.com.au, your spare bedroom could be earning you up to $ 15,000 per annum, with demand for share accommodation at the moment outstripping supply.

CANSTAR caught up with flatmates.com.au for a handful of guidelines on what to contemplate before putting up a “to let” sign.

Q: Additional income sounds wonderful – but locating a great flatmate is essential, as well. Do you have any guidelines on how to boost your possibilities of picking a good flatmate?

A: Our most significant tip for deciding on a flatmate is, take your time. Invite prospective flatmates over for a area inspection and an informal sit-down chat. Asking them about their habits, way of life and perform predicament will give you a excellent indication about their suitability for the house. Believe it or not, most of our customers will make their final choice primarily based on gut feeling. Keep in mind that sharing is more about the folks than the property and obtaining a flatmate will be a little far more informal than obtaining a tenant.

For added security, requests for references from employers and preceding landlords are far more than acceptable, nevertheless, they must be requested before the viewing.

2. Is it a very good idea to have a set of “house rules”? What types of issues would/should typically be incorporated?

Having a flatmate agreement in spot is a wonderful way to make sure everybody is on the very same web page. It also aids as a reference point should there be any disagreements later on. Along with basic guidelines, the agreement need to also contain: what bills, if any, are included in the rent any furniture supplied the situation of the room and move out terms.

Day to day rules will vary depending on the occupants of a property, however, they may possibly include factors such as: having guests more than if meals is shared or not respect for space and belongings and cleaning responsibilities.

3. Are there any legal responsibilities that landlords should be aware of?

Legal responsibilities adjust from state to state and will also rely on if the particular person is subletting a room or are the owner. We advise any person contemplating a flatmate contact their respective tenancy authority to make certain they are aware of their legal responsibilities and rights.

4. Lastly, from your internet site, what are some of the suburbs that are frequently quickly snapped up by potential tenants?

We don’t have a requirement from our users to tell us when they have successfully identified a flatmate. Nonetheless, beneath are the most well-known suburbs which acquire the most quantity of enquiries.

NSW:

• Ultimo


• Pyrmont


• Glebe


• Sydney CBD


• Chippendale

VIC:

• Melbourne CBD


• West Melbourne


• Ricjmond


• South Yarra


• Clayton

QLD

• Paddington


• South Brisbane


• Brisbane CBD


• Surfers Paradise


• Spring Hill

ACT

• Braddon


• Belconnen


• Canberra CBD


• Bruce


• Cook

WA

• Perth CBD


• Bentley


• West Perth


• Wilson


• East Perth

SA

• Adelaide CBD


• Henley Beach


• Darlington


• Norwood


• Prospect

Of course, constantly verify your rights and responsibilities as a landlord and every single state has details on the rights and responsibilities of landlords. Click on the relevant state for much more info.

Prior to you rent out a room…