What to do with mail for previous tenant australia
In Australia, when a tenant moves out, it's the landlord's responsibility to deal with any outstanding mail that belongs to the previous tenant. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Check the mail: When the tenant moves out, inspect the property and check for any mail that may have been left behind. This could include bills, letters, packages, and other correspondence.
- Notify the tenant: If you find any mail, notify the tenant and ask them to collect it. You can do this by sending them a text message, email, or leaving a note at the property.
- Hold onto it: If the tenant doesn't respond or collect the mail, you can hold onto it for a reasonable period (e.g., 2-3 weeks). This allows them time to get in touch with you or arrange for someone to collect the mail on their behalf.
- Return to sender: If the tenant doesn't respond or collect the mail after the reasonable period, you can return the mail to the sender. This is usually done by forwarding the mail to the sender's address or contacting them to arrange for the mail to be returned.
- Keep a record: Keep a record of the mail you've received, including the sender's name and address, the date it was received, and any actions you've taken to deal with it. This can help protect you in case of any disputes or issues that may arise.
Some additional tips to keep in mind:
- If you're unsure about what to do with a particular piece of mail, you can contact the sender or the Australian Postal Corporation (Australia Post) for guidance.
- If the tenant has left behind a large amount of mail or packages, you may need to contact the relevant authorities (e.g., the local council or police) for assistance.
- Always keep a record of any correspondence or interactions you have with the tenant regarding the mail.
Remember to prioritize your responsibilities as a landlord and ensure that you're complying with your obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act in your state or territory.