This is always at your discretion and naturally some properties are simply not suited to animals. Most apartment buildings have by-laws that limit the keeping of animals. If you're looking for a competitive edge in the rental marketplace allowing pets may be handy. A recent BRW Magazine article reported that 64% of Australian households have a pet. In fact there's almost double the number of pets as there are children under 18 in this country!

Who gets listed on a tenancy default database? The law is fairly clear on this. The databases can only keep listed a tenant who was named on a lease and owes a landlord money that exceeds their bond and where

A tenant can also be listed on a default database where the Tribunal has terminated the tenancy for "objectionable behaviour", or for repeated breaches.

We all know they want space, a good location, clean and well presented homes and access to transport and shops. Here's some extra info from our experience dealing with their preferences in Brisbane's inner suburbs:

• most tenants use a computer at home; largest number in their bedroom, then the living areas and lastly in a study.
• they'll usually choose a bigger living room over a bigger balcony
• better quality appliances over a larger home
• bigger bedrooms are better than more dedicated storage space
• a large majority rate greenery & gardens higher than more car parking
• two-thirds would usually choose a home close to transport over a quiet location
• good security - especially for the growing market of single females

The State Government receives all interest on trust accounts. Along with the interest earned from having your tenant's bond, they use this to fund various initiatives including tenancy support agencies such as the Tenant's Union.

The RTA says the landlord is responsible for a reasonable amount of water used on the premises and can require the tenant to pay for water used above that amount if the premises are individually metered. If all your water devices meet required standards you may be able to charge your tenants for all water consumed.

The RTA restricts the maximum bond to four week rent for properties up to $700 per week. Over that amount we can request more but will usually meet resistance from prospective tenants already paying two weeks rent in advance (so totalling more than $4200 on move-in).

The RTA list various items including a burst water service, blocked or broken toilet, serious roof leak, gas leak or a fault or damage that is likely to cause injury, undue inconvenience, or which makes the premises unsafe or insecure (like broken stairs, broken locks or a serious electrical fault).

Yes. Court decisions in recent years have seen enormous judgements against property owners. We require you to have a minimum cover of $10million before we start working for you.