Uniting Country Housing: Tenants

Your rights as a tenant

We are committed to ensuring that our tenants are treated with the utmost respect and fairness. Here are your rights as a valued member of our community:

Respect and non-discrimination

You have the right to be treated with respect and fairness, free from any form of discrimination.

Professional property management

Your property will be managed in compliance with all relevant laws, including the Residential Tenancies Act.

Confidentiality and privacy

Your personal information will be kept confidential and private, unless you provide explicit consent to share it.

Timely repairs and maintenance

You can expect timely repairs and maintenance for wear and tear or breakages, provided they are not caused by intentional damage or neglect.

Peaceful living environment

You have the right to live peacefully in your property for the duration of your lease.

Right to complain and appeal

If you disagree with any decisions or actions taken by UCH, you have the right to lodge a complaint or appeal without fear of retaliation.

Advocacy support

You have the right to appoint an advocate to communicate with UCH on your behalf.

DOWNLOAD YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Your responsibilities as a tenant

As a tenant, you have several important responsibilities to ensure a harmonious living environment, and proper upkeep of your home. These include:

Maintaining cleanliness

Keep your home and garden clean and free of rubbish

Timely rent payments

Ensure that your rent is paid regularly and on time.

Responsible use

Live in a responsible manner, avoiding any actions that may cause damage.

Accountable behaviour

Be accountable for your behaviour as well as the behaviour of other occupants, visitors, and pets.

Access for inspections and repairs

Provide access to contractors and UCH staff for necessary inspections, repairs, or servicing work.

Neighbourly conduct

Be a good neighbour by respecting the community and its members.

Income verification

Submit your income details for rent review purposes.

Occupancy rules

Do not allow anyone else to move into your home without prior permission from UCH.

Absence notification

Inform UCH if you plan to be away from the property for extended periods.

End of tenancy cleanliness

Leave the property clean and tidy upon vacating.

Income change notification

Notify UCH if there are any changes in your household income.

By adhering to these responsibilities, you contribute to a positive living experience for yourself and your community.

DOWNLOAD YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Useful Information

Appeal process

You can appeal a decision in relation to your tenancy through an internal review by UCH/UCSA. Contact can be made by calling 1300 067 777 and requesting to speak with the Team Leader UCH, Manager UCH or General Manager. Alternatively, you can complete the feedback form here.

Another method of appeal is to contact the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT).

Paying rent

Community Housing Providers use an income-based rent model. This means that your rent is calculated at either 25% or 30% of your household income. It is really important that you notify your Tenancy Officer if someone moves in or out of your house. It is also important that you let us know if your income changes, for example if you start working.

Rent reviews are completed once a year or if your situation changes. You will be notified in writing and asked to alter your payments to match your rent.

It is a condition of your tenancy that you are two weeks rent in front at all times. If you are ever struggling to make payments, please contact your Tenancy Officer who can provide you with a referral to a financial counsellor.

You can request a copy of your rent statement at any time. This can be requested from any UCH staff member. It can be emailed or posted to you via mail. Alternatively, you can visit any UCH office and be provided with it on the spot, or contact 1300 067 777 and ask to speak with a UCH staff member.

Rent payments can be made in cash in person at any UCH office. Payments for current tenants can also be made via Centrepay. Your Tenancy Officer can assist with setting this method up. Payments can also be made at your local bank or through internet banking. Please provide your name as an identifier. This method can also be used for tenants who have previously vacated with arrears.

UCH
Bank SA
BSB: 105-003
Account Number: 127449440

Ending your tenancy

In most cases you need to provide 7 days notice to vacate your tenancy. To do so, please complete the Intent to Vacate form and return it to your Tenancy Officer or any UCH Office. We can also provide a paper copy, upon request.

It is best to have a conversation with UCH about what is required when vacating a property to avoid any vacancy charges. The Intent to Vacate form provides some basic information regarding tasks to complete.

A Tenancy Officer can also visit your property and explain what you will need to do prior to leaving.

INTENT TO VACATE FORM

Report Anti-Social Behaviour

Anti-Social behaviour includes any behaviors that interfere with the reasonable peace, comfort and privacy of neighbours. It may include excessive noise, property damage or abusive behaviours.

You can lodge a complaint by completing the form below:

Reporting Maintenance Issues

If you’re a tenant encountering a maintenance issue, please complete our Maintenance Request Form to report your concern. Our team triages all maintenance requests based on health and safety risks, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.

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Information For Tenants