Q & A: I have an existing lease. Do I have to get permission before my new housemate can move in?

Yes. The owner of the property has the right to know and approve people living in their property. You must contact the lessor/agent/owner about any tenancy changes and you will have to get your new flatmate to complete a Rental Application Form before they move in.

It is essential that the lessor/agent/owner is notified each time tenancy changes occur. It is also in your best interest to add your new housemate to your existing lease for your own protection. So all tenants are responsible for payment of rent and payment of any compensation owned - if the Tenancy Agreement is breached.

If the lessor/agent/owner refuses to accept your housemate's application, you can apply to your State Authority's Dispute Resolution Service. Although keep in mind that most real estate agents will do a though review of the application and check any tenancy databases (ie. Tica) for any tenancy defaults - such as unpaid rent. So, if your new housemate's application has been refused there is probably a very good reason.