A general tenancy agreement outlines the legal rights and responsibilities of a tenant and lessor/agent. Special terms can be added if the lessor/agent and tenant agree.

The General tenancy agreement (Form 18a) is for tenants renting houses, townhouses, units and houseboats.

The person renting the accommodation is known as the tenant and the person providing the property is the lessor or an agent.

Fast facts 

• It is a legally binding contract.
• It must be in writing.
• It must include the standard terms and can include special terms (e.g. keeping pets, pest control, water charging, carpet cleaning or pool maintenance).
• It should be written in a clear way.
• The lessor must pay for the cost of preparing the agreement.
• The tenant must sign the agreement and return it to the lessor/agent within 5 days. Tenants should be sent back a copy within 14 days of the lessor/agent receiving the original copy.
• It applies to everyone renting the property (e.g. includes those in share homes or co-tenancies).
• The lessor/agent has a right to know of everyone who is living at the property. The lessor/agent needs to be notified of and give permission for any new tenants or sub-tenants before they can move in.
• The lessor/agent must keep a copy of the tenancy agreement for one year after the agreement ends.