Everything you always wanted to know about SA renting (But were afraid to ask)

Renting in South Australia's residential market includes a few unique options for property owners and lessees' when signing up for a new abode. You can even verbally agree to everything without a lease agreement if you wish (or dare) and your new tenancy agreement is in place with a simple handshake and key exchange.

SA-renting

Join us as we make our way across the country and delve into the legal rights of an Aussie renter

We don't recommend leasing without a signed agreement, and if you're a landlord in SA, jump on to Instarent, join free, and quickly click your way around leases in every Australian state and customise them to your needs.

South Australians are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act 1995 (SA) and the relationship between landlords and tenants. The Residential Tenancies Act 1995 (SA) applies to most agreements.

This Act covers not all tenancies; for example, caravan park tenants are covered by the Residential Parks Act 2007 (SA), and boarders and lodgers are regulated by the common law and specific other statutes.

South Australian renters have a wide range of services available

Browse below for a great list of links and sites, including private, government and non-profits that can assist with any residential leasing requirements for both property owner and tenant.

Government of South Australia

Apply for subsidised rent in public housing

Apply to run a business from public housing

Buying your public housing property

Disability modifications in community housing

First Home Owner Grant

Having difficulty paying a Housing SA account

Help to pay bond and rent.

Home improvements in public housing

Housing in Aboriginal communities

Modifying public housing for people with a disability

Transfer a public housing tenancy to another person

Transfer or exchange a Housing SA property

REISA The Real Estate Institute of South Australia

(REISA) is the peak professional body representing more than 2000 real estate professionals in South Australia. EISA has worked over the years to introduce beneficial initiatives to the real estate industry, and critical areas of focus include:

• Improving the quality of real estate services to the public

• Providing high-quality training for real estate professionals

• Maintaining awareness of the benefits of private property ownership

• Monitoring and acting upon political issues that affect real estate

• Encouraging members' involvement in community affairs

• All members are required to abide by a Code of Conduct

RentRight SA

RentRight is a free, independent service helping people maintain their tenancies in private rental, community housing or public housing.

"We can help with issues related to your tenancy, such as leases, bond disputes, property maintenance and unpaid rent. Tenancy advisors are available to anyone in South Australia, from 8 am to 8 pm, Monday to Friday, via phone and email."

• Support to sustain or access a residential tenancy

• Education and information about a tenant's rights and responsibilities

• Advocacy and advice regarding tenancy issues and the housing options available

• Help to navigate the housing system We can also help you access legal, health, and social services to sustain your tenancy.

Legal Services Commission of South Australia

Service Directory - Legal Services Commission of SA

National Debt Helpline

National Debt Helpline is a not-for-profit service that helps people tackle their debt problems. It is not a lender and does not ‘sell’ anything or make money from people. Its professional financial counsellors offer a free, independent and confidential service.

Contact a financial counsellor on 1800 007 007

Visit ndh.org.au for more information

Moneysmart

Moneysmart helps people take control of their money with free tools, tips and guidance.

Visit moneysmart.gov.au

More information on your rights and responsibilities as a tenant