Tenant Checks in the NT

Find out everything you need to know about conducting a Tenant Check in the NT.

Here’s what you need to know about tenancy checks in the Northern Territory before leasing out your property.

Under the Northern Territory’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), landlords are required to undertake tenant checks before entering into a tenancy agreement with a potential tenant. 

This means landlords must search an approved database to check the identity and creditworthiness of their potential tenants before entering into the tenancy agreement. The RTA also stipulates that you cannot discriminate against a potential tenant on any grounds, including race or religion. 

The approved databases used to conduct tenant checks in Northern Territory generally include tenancy databases such as the Tenancy Information Centre of Australia (TICA) and the National Tenancy Database (NTD).

When conducting a search of any of these databases, it is essential for you to ensure only use information related to the prospective tenant that is relevant and up-to-date. 

It is also essential to remember that if you find a matching record for their potential tenant, you must notify them in writing within seven days of the personal information listed on the database, the name of the database that produced a match, the name of the listing Landlord/Agent, as well as information on how and in what circumstances their personal information can be amended or removed from the database. 

Also read: Selecting the Right Tenants - 2 Key Points to Keep in Mind | RentBetter

Listing Period

Information regarding each particular listing on a tenancy database can only be kept for a maximum of three years. A lesser period may apply if determined by the Australian Privacy Principals as per the Privacy Act 1988.

For further information see Consumer Affairs NT.

How can I run a Tenant Check in the NT?

RentBetter provides you with a reliable way to conduct tenant checks so you can find out more information about prospective tenants.

Using RentBetter to gain access to the NTD, the market-leading solution by Equifax, you'll be provided with detailed information on a tenant's past rental history and behaviour. This information can help you make informed decisions and ensure you get the right tenant into your property.

The tenant check searches through hundreds of sources to identify any potential risks related to the individual being screened. This includes checking for any past evictions, late payments, missed rental payments, or other relevant data points.

The information gathered is used to help you make an informed decision before you approve a tenant and sign a lease agreement.

Ready to conduct a Tenant Check?

If you're ready to run a a tenant check on your potential new tenants it's really easy to do through RentBetter in just a couple of clicks.

You can get started here.