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What Documents Do I Need to Rent an Apartment?

May 26, 2023
what documents do i need to rent an apartment

Key takeaways:

    • Complete the form with full responses to every question – skimping on the details could often mean that your application won’t be accepted.

    • Don’t take any chances by leaving out vital information! It’s a risky move and could easily backfire!

  • Give enough financial and contact details to prove your capacity to cover the rent.

Applying for a rental property in Australia isn’t a big deal. All you need to do is fill out the form and give them all the essential information they’re after. It’s as easy as that!

However, you have to submit the completed application form with all the documents required from tenants. Don’t forget: the landlord or property management needs extra proof that you are eligible and can afford the rent.

Whether you scribble it down on paper or fill out an online form, it’s all the same. Once you’ve got the required documents ready, your rental application process is nothing but a breeze! So, what documents do I need to rent an apartment? Let’s find out!

What documents do I need to rent an apartment

Have you ever wondered how to write a cover letter for your rental application? The first step is to complete an application form and get all the supporting documentation. The following relevant documents are often required:

Documents of identification

You’ll need to show your ID! Property managers do their due diligence and run a background check, so ensure you have all the proper paperwork. It’s essential; there’s no way around it!

Typically, your driver’s licence, the card number on your licence or passport should be enough. Be prepared to show it if asked for more proof, like your Medicare reference number, birth certificate, car rego or health care card.

A rental payment history

So, how long does a rental application take to be approved? You have better chances of your application being accepted as a renter if you have an impressive rental history with consistently on-time payments and good upkeep of the property. So, don’t forget to bring that rental ledger from your old landlord – it’s just a record of all your timely payments, proving that you’re the ideal tenant!

Pay stubs as evidence of income

Proof of income is crucial if you are applying for a rental. Pay stubs are proof when it comes to showing you have a steady job and can afford rent. 

You can include your bank statements and pay stubs with your application if you want to increase your chances of getting that rental property. Your employer can provide you with pay stubs. But Centrelink can help with an income statement if you don’t have pay stubs.

You might ask what landlords look for in bank statements. Well, we all make online transactions during the month or a year and the bank keeps a record of them all. It’s a good way of seeing whether the tenant is spendthrift or thrifty.

List of references

what documents do i need to rent an apartment

When you put in an application for a rental property, the property manager can get in touch with personal references of your choosing. They could be a former real estate agent, your boss, or anyone who personally knows you from a former real estate agency.

The personal references on your rental application should be a comprehensive list of names and numbers. You’ve got to pick your best options—people who know you well and have good things to say about you.

You can either include their contact details for the property manager to reach out to them personally, or you can ask your references to write you a rental reference letter to include in your rental application.

What happens if you don’t have Australian employment verification?

what documents do i need to rent an apartment

That’s not good!  If you don’t have proof of employment in Australia, you may find yourself in a sticky situation. Without verification of your job status, potential employers could give you the cold shoulder and pass on offering you the apartment. So don’t take any chances; get those documents ready to show and go! Guess what?  You can pay rent over the first six months upfront!

What documents do I need to rent an apartment: people also ask

What is required in Australia to rent an apartment?

You need official photo identification, like your passport and a foreign driver’s licence. Proof that you can pay the rent? A recent pay stub or bank statement should do the trick. If you want to show proof of your work in Australia, bring along a contract of employment or some reference letters. Easy peasy!

How can I rent a home in Australia for the first time?

First off, find a place. Pick up the rental property form and fill it out. Next, attach all the documents required from tenants. It’s always wise to have a backup copy of all documents like IDs, phone bills, and pay stubs, both online and paper-based. Cover letters are essential to put on your application if living with your parents.

Do I need a job to rent in Australia?

Of course! I mean, you need to show that you can pay rent, right? But if you don’t have a job, just include all your income sources, say a tax refund or unemployment benefits. Even child support and alimony payments can give you an edge when appealing to your landlord.

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Soho is your expert team in Australian real estate, offering an innovative platform for effortless property searches. With deep insights into buying, renting, and market trends, we guide you to make informed decisions, whether it's your first home or exploring new suburbs.
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