Tenant Portal
Tenant Portal
Renting with SBA Property Group
We’re committed to making your rental experience smooth, simple, and stress-free. Whether
you’re just moving in or preparing to move out, here’s everything you need to know as a
valued tenant with SBA Property Group.
Understanding Your Lease
Before moving in, you’ll sign a residential lease agreement – a legally binding contract between you and the landlord. This outlines how long you’ll stay, your weekly rent, and what both parties are responsible for.
It’s important to review your lease carefully. Signing means you agree to the terms set out in the document. If the agreement is reached, it could lead to eviction or financial penalties.
Need help understanding the details? SBA Property Group is just a call away.
Your Rights as a Tenant
Tenants have strong rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, including the right to privacy, safety, and a properly maintained home.
Your landlord must give you notice before entering the property and is responsible for maintenance and repairs. These rights can vary by region, so it’s important to know what applies in the ACT.
At SBA Property Group, we keep you informed and protected throughout your lease.
Moving Out or Ending a Lease
Near the end of your lease, we’ll offer a renewal or help you plan your move. If you’re leaving, we require written notice—generally 2 to 3 weeks before your lease ends.
If you need to move earlier, that’s okay—just be aware that breaking a lease might involve covering rent until a new tenant is found, along with advertising or re-letting fees.
We’re here to guide you through it all, step by step.
Bond Requirements
Your bond is a security deposit, usually equal to 4 weeks’ rent, paid before you move in. It’s lodged with the Rental Revenue Board (in ACT) and is refundable at the end of your lease, provided the property is left in good condition.
SBA Property Group ensures the entire bond process is handled with full transparency and compliance with local regulations.
Paying Rent
At SBA Property Group, we’ve partnered with PropertyMe to simplify rent payments.
PropertyMe guides you through rent setup and makes it easy to manage payments through:
- Bank transfer
- EFTPOS
- Credit card
- Payroll deduction
- RentPay
You’ll receive clear instructions via the PropertyMe Tenant Portal, helping you stay on top
of your rent stress-free.
Repairs & Maintenance
Keeping your rental property in great condition is a shared responsibility. Here’s how it
works:
Non-Urgent Repairs
For general maintenance or non-urgent issues (e.g., a dripping tap, loose door handle), contact us during business hours:
0452 454 259
office@sbapropertygroup.com.au
Use your PropertyMe Tenant Portal to submit all repair requests. We’ll assign the right
tradesperson and update you on the job’s progress.
Urgent Repairs
Some issues require immediate action. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT),
urgent repairs include:
- Burst water pipes
- Blocked or broken toilet
- Serious gas or electrical faults
- No electricity, gas, or water
- Hot water failure
- Faulty heating or air conditioning (if provided)
- Fire, storm, or flood damage
- Unsafe or insecure premises
- Broken smoke alarms
- Failure of provided cooking appliances
If urgent repairs occur after hours and you can’t reach us, you may contact a qualified
tradesperson from the list below directly.
Urgent Repair Contacts
| Service Type | Company / Contact | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Plumber | One Call Plumbing | 0421 557 700 |
| Electrician | ActewAGL | 131 493 |
| Gas Fitter | JML Plumbing | (02) 6193 4089 |
| Hot Water Repairs | The Tap Doctor | 1300 670 247 |
| Locksmith | Locksmith Canberra | (02) 6169 6575 |
| Smoke Alarm Service | SATS | 1300 416 667 |
| General Handyman/Emergency | Kamal | 0405 655 553 |
Important for Tenants
- Always notify SBA Property Group ASAP—even if the repair is resolved—so we can record it officially
- Email: office@sbapropertygroup.com.au
- If you pay for urgent work, keep your receipt—you may be reimbursed under
Section 55 of the Act.
What You Can’t Do in a Rental
Your lease will clearly list what needs permission. Without written approval, please don’t:
- Keep pets
- Paint walls or make alterations
- Install fixtures
- Sublet the property
Unsure about something? Just ask us. SBA Property Group is here to help you enjoy your home while following the rules.
All-In-One Tenant Experience with PropertyMe
All rental payments and maintenance requests are now handled through PropertyMe — your go-to tenant portal.
From logging repair requests and checking payment history to downloading your receipts, everything you need is just a tap away.
We’ll provide your login details and instructions when your tenancy begins.
RENT — Understanding Real Estate Tenancy Agreements
A guide from SBA Property Group for our valued tenants
Signing a lease is an exciting step toward securing your new home — but it’s also a legal commitment. That’s why at SBA Property Group; we want to make sure you understand every part of your tenancy agreement before signing on the dotted line.
What Is a Tenancy Agreement?
A tenancy agreement, also known as a lease, is a legally binding contract between you (the tenant) and us, as the managing agent on behalf of the property owner.
It sets out everything from the rent amount and payment schedule to your responsibilities while living in the home.
As your property manager, SBA Property Group ensures your tenancy agreement is fair, compliant with ACT law, and tailored to your rental situation.
What Must Be Included in a Tenancy Agreement?
Every lease, regardless of where you live, must include key information such as:
- The full name and address of both the tenant and the landlord/property manager
- The start and end dates of the lease — or whether it’s a periodic agreement (ongoing)
- The rental amount, payment method, and due dates
- The standard terms of tenancy (e.g. rules about cleanliness, inspections, damage, etc.)
- Any special conditions — such as pet permissions, carpet cleaning, no smoking, etc.
There are two common types of agreements:
- Fixed-term agreement — Usually 6, 9, or 12 months, with an agreed end date
- Periodic agreement — Ongoing month-to-month, with appropriate notice required for ending
Important Notes Before Signing
At SBA Property Group, we provide you with a copy of the agreement before you pay any rent or bond. You are encouraged to ask questions and take the time to understand all terms. Even if you’re renting from family or friends — a written agreement must be used.
Tip: If you notice any maintenance issues during inspection before moving in, ensure these are noted in the agreement along with a timeframe for repairs.
Landlord & Agent Responsibilities
SBA Property Group takes care of the following as your managing agent:
- Preparing and covering the cost of the lease documentation
- Using the correct, legally approved ACT forms
- Providing you with the agreement before you sign
- Ensuring you receive a signed copy within 14 days after it’s returned to us
- Making sure there are no legal barriers to your tenancy
- Ensuring the property is safe, clean, and ready for move-in on the agreed date
Holding Fee Explained
Sometimes, you may be asked to pay a holding fee after your tenancy application is approved. This fee:
- Reserves the property for you for up to 7 days
- Counts toward your first rent payment once the lease is signed
The holding fee must be refunded if:
- We decide not to proceed with your tenancy
- You withdraw due to misleading information or withheld material facts
You may forfeit the fee if
- You change your mind for personal reasons and choose not to sign the lease
Note: Only one holding fee can be taken per property at a time. In the ACT, the agent cannot accept another application during the holding period.
Holding Fee vs Reservation Fee
A holding fee can only be requested after your tenancy application is approved. Once paid, we must reserve the property for you and stop marketing it for other tenants for a set period.
If you later change your mind, the full fee may be withheld.
Keep Good Records
Your tenancy agreement is more than just paperwork — it’s your reference point for the duration of your lease. Keep printed or digital copies of:
- Your lease agreement
- Bond lodgement forms
- Entry condition reports and any maintenance requests
- Photos of the property before you move in
Organising these documents from the start can help resolve any potential issues quickly and protect both your rights and your bond.
Know the Law in Your State
While this guide is tailored for ACT tenants, regulations may vary slightly between states and territories. For specific guidance, contact SBA Property Group or refer to your local tenancy authority.
Need Help Understanding Your Lease?
We’re here to support you at every stage of your tenancy. Whether it’s understanding the fine print, asking about special terms, or clarifying your rights, our team at SBA Property Group is only a call or email away.
