We’ve all been there at some point in our lives when we have to leave the family nest and venture out into the big bad world
Leaving your family home and moving into rented accommodation can be a challenge, while for landlords renting out your property is just as daunting.  From trying to find out what documentation is needed before you even meet, knowing your tenant and landlord rights, being aware of the rules with regards to looking after the house, establishing and maintaining a good tenant/landlord relationship and of course paying rent, bills and deposits it can seem like a daunting task for tenants and landlords alike.

Here at Denis A. Barrett we know from experience that the most important thing is a good line of communication between both groups with regards to key issues that often arise.

With that in mind here is a list of 11 obligations we advise tenants to note when renting a property.

11 Tenant Obligations when renting:

1. To provide references – Work and previous landlord; Tenants are to provide the agent with both references which should be for current employment and most recent landlord reference. Both must be in writing and provide contact details for employer and landlord.

2. To pay one months rent and one months security deposit in advance- One months rent and one months security deposit of the agreed rental amount must be provided in advance of moving into the property. This can be paid directly to our account or in cash, cheque or bank draft to our office.

3. To agree a rental period prior to signing a contract-A rental term must be agreed and stated on the contract. The tenants must remain at the property for this agreed term

4. To maintain the property in good manor and report and issues to landlord/management company- Any issues or questions that a tenant should have must be reported to the landlord/agent throughout the tenancy. The property must be kept in good condition by the tenant and any issues that arise will be dealt with immediately.

5. To pay the agreed rent amount on or before the due date every month- The tenant will sign a contract and agree to pay rent as of that date monthly on time for the full amount. This is paid to our bank account or to our office.

6. Allow landlord/agent to carry out routine inspections- It is agreed that routine inspections will be carried out quarterly at the property. Tenants will be given sufficient notice of any inspections and will allow the Landlord or Agent access to the property.

7. Do not cause damage to the property intentionally- The property must be looked after by the tenant and no damage caused intentionally to the property. Any damage caused must be reported to the landlord/ agent immediately.

8. Give landlord/agent sufficient notice of vacating the property- If a tenant is leaving a property, they must give sufficient notice as per threshold regulations and inform the landlord/agent. All keys must be returned on the agreed vacating date.

9. Ensure that all bills are paid up to date prior to vacating the property ie ESB, GAS, phone etc.- All bills must be paid in full and all balanced cleared prior to the tenants vacating the property. The ESB and Gas account must be transferred back into the landlords name and all other accounts rectified.

10. To sign the PRTB form- All landlords must register with the PRTB every tenancy. The tenants must sign the Private Residential Tenancies Board form and provide PPS numbers.

11. To inform the landlord/agent of any requests or changes to the tenancy or within the property- Should a tenant request to change the terms of their tenancy or adjust it in anyway, they must confirm this with the agent/landlord.

Being aware of these 11 points before you start will ensure that the move from family home to rented accommodation is a stress free and enjoyable venture for both tenants and landlords alike.  For tenants knowing your rights and obligations with regards to moving into rented accommodation allows you to enjoy your new found freedom responsibly.

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