Furnished Apartment Lease Addendum Template for Australia

A Furnished Apartment Lease Addendum is an essential legal supplement to your standard residential lease agreement when renting a property that includes furniture, appliances, or other furnishings. This document becomes part of your main lease agreement and establishes specific terms, conditions, and responsibilities for all furnished items included with the rental property.

When do you need this document?

You need a Furnished Apartment Lease Addendum whenever you're entering into a rental arrangement that includes furniture, appliances, or other furnishings beyond basic fixtures. This commonly applies to executive rentals, student accommodation, short-term corporate housing, holiday rentals transitioning to longer-term leases, and premium residential properties where significant value is added through furnished items. The addendum is also essential when converting an unfurnished lease to include furniture, or when specific high-value items like artwork, electronics, or specialty appliances are included in the rental arrangement.

Key legal considerations

The addendum must include a detailed inventory schedule listing all furnished items, their condition, age, and replacement values to prevent disputes over damages or missing items. You should establish clear maintenance responsibilities, distinguishing between normal wear and tear versus tenant-caused damage, and specify who is responsible for repairs, replacements, and ongoing maintenance of furnished items. The document should address insurance requirements, including whether tenant's contents insurance must cover furnished items, and establish security bond arrangements that may be higher for furnished properties. Consider including clauses about reasonable use, restrictions on moving furniture, requirements for professional cleaning, and procedures for reporting damage or maintenance issues.

Legal requirements in Australia

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010, furnished lease addendums must comply with standard tenancy agreement requirements while addressing specific furnished property considerations. The addendum must be written, signed by all parties, and clearly reference the main lease agreement it supplements. Australian Consumer Law requires that all furnished items meet safety and quality standards, and any defects must be disclosed upfront. You must ensure the addendum doesn't override fundamental tenant rights under residential tenancy legislation, such as quiet enjoyment or the landlord's duty to maintain the property in good repair. The document should specify that furnished items remain the landlord's property and establish clear procedures for inspection, damage assessment, and dispute resolution that align with state residential tenancy tribunal processes. Work Health and Safety Act compliance may require safety checks and documentation for electrical appliances and furniture.