Whether you’re about to apply to rent your new home or preparing to hand back the keys, understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant can save you money and stress while setting you up for your next rental.
Rental agencies are increasingly making use of advanced applicant screening tools that rate applicants based on their rental payment history and how well they look after the property. Incoming and outgoing inspections, working with landlords to stay on top of maintenance, and a solid payment track record will all help to put your application on the top of the pile.
Inspections and maintenance – what are your responsibilities?
Landlords are always looking for tenants who will take good care of their homes, but what does that mean in practice?
In general, tenants are responsible for minor day-to-day upkeep, like replacing light bulbs or keeping the garden tidy. Structural repairs, plumbing issues, and electrical faults are for the landlord to handle. But tenants still have some responsibility related to major repairs, even if they aren’t expected to do them themselves.
“If something breaks, report it promptly in writing,” says André van Rooyen from PayProp. “This helps avoid the issue worsening and becoming a bigger problem and also gives you a record that you can refer back to at the end of the tenancy. If your agency has a maintenance portal for submitting tickets, use that – it means you can track progress on resolving your issue.”
It’s also important to note that landlords cannot deduct money from your deposit for ‘fair wear and tear’ – the natural deterioration that happens over time. They can only charge for damage over and above that.
How are charges decided? Under South African law, your landlord or rental agent must conduct an incoming inspection (before you move in) and an outgoing inspection (when you move out). While it’s not required, they may also carry out interim inspections during your tenancy – these may be stipulated in your lease, but don’t have to be. These inspections, ideally carried out with you present, document the condition of the property, and help determine whether any repairs are needed – and who needs to pay for them.
“An incoming inspection protects the tenant as much as the landlord,” says Van Rooyen. “If you have a detailed record of the property’s condition from day one, it’s much easier to avoid disputes about damage later.”
Why your payment and tenancy record matters
Paying rent on time isn’t just about keeping your current landlord happy. A positive payment record can help you secure your next rental, and sometimes even negotiate better terms.
“With more agents and landlords using digital platforms to manage rental applications, your payment and rental history is increasingly easy to access,” says van Rooyen. “Tenants who consistently pay on time and keep the property in good condition will find it easier to get approved for future rentals.”
If tenants run into financial problems and are worried about being able to pay rent, it’s critical to reach out to the landlord or agent before you fall into arrears. Agreeing to defer rent payments or go onto a payment plan (if available) can preserve your good relationship and prevent long-term damage to your ability to rent homes. Rental agents using advanced payment tools can ensure that pre-approved late payments don’t affect your payment record.
Van Rooyen reiterates the following:
● Be present for inspections and keep your own copy of the reports.
● Understand the difference between fair wear and tear and damage.
● Report maintenance issues promptly and in writing.
● Keep your payment record spotless – it’s your rental CV.
“Good tenants aren’t simply lucky, they’re proactive,” says van Rooyen. “Know your rights, meet your obligations, and you’ll enjoy a smooth, stress-free rental experience in your current property and the next ones.”
Also see: Passive income through property: Still worth it in 2025?
