The festive season is fast approaching, and between Christmas preparations, summer holidays and end-of-year commitments, property matters can easily slip down the priority list.
For landlords and tenants with a lease expiring over December or January, a little preparation now can make all the difference.
Whether you're renewing a lease, reviewing rental arrangements or planning your next move, here's what to consider before the holiday season begins.
First things first, when does your current lease end? In South Australia, residential tenancy agreements are generally either fixed-term or periodic.
A fixed-term lease runs for an agreed period, typically six or twelve months, while a periodic lease continues without a specified end date.
If a fixed-term agreement expires without either party giving the required notice, it generally continues as a periodic tenancy.
For landlords, reviewing upcoming expiries early allows time to discuss renewal options and make informed decisions. For tenants, it provides clarity about their living arrangements heading into the new year.
Planning to renew or end a tenancy? Understanding your obligations is essential.
Under South Australian tenancy laws:
- Tenants ending a fixed-term lease must provide at least 28 days' written notice if they intend to leave at the end of the agreement.
- Landlords ending a fixed-term lease generally must provide at least 60 days' notice and have a legally prescribed reason.
- Tenants on periodic leases generally need to provide at least 21 days' written notice, or one month's notice if rent is paid monthly.
Landlords ending periodic tenancies must also meet specific legal requirements, including applicable notice periods and grounds for termination.
With Christmas and New Year approaching, it's worth reviewing these timelines sooner rather than later.
For investment property owners, a lease renewal is an opportunity to review how your property is performing.
Is the current rent aligned with comparable Adelaide rental properties? Are the existing lease arrangements still suitable for both parties?
In South Australia, rent increases are generally permitted only once every 12 months, with at least 60 days' written notice required. Additional conditions apply to increases during fixed-term agreements.
A considered approach to rental pricing helps landlords protect their investment while maintaining positive, long-term tenant relationships.
4. Get Ahead of Summer Maintenance
Adelaide summers can be demanding on rental properties, particularly when temperatures rise.
Before the holiday break, it's worth reviewing outstanding maintenance requests and addressing issues that could affect comfort, safety or the property's condition.
Consider checking:
- Air conditioning and cooling systems
- Outdoor areas, gardens and irrigation
- Plumbing, leaks and water fixtures
- Outstanding repairs and maintenance requests
For tenants, reporting concerns early gives property managers and trades more opportunity to arrange repairs before the holiday period.
For landlords, proactive maintenance can help prevent smaller issues from becoming more costly problems.
Perhaps the simplest way to avoid unnecessary stress over summer is to keep everyone informed.
Landlords should confirm renewal intentions and any proposed changes early, while tenants should communicate their plans and raise questions before the festive break.
It's also worth confirming holiday contact arrangements and how urgent maintenance will be handled.
Whether you're a landlord planning ahead or a tenant preparing for another year in your home, taking care of the details before Christmas can help make summer a little simpler.
Looking for hassle-free property management in Adelaide? Get in touch with OCPM and let our experienced team take care of your investment.
