Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, inspections with our Accommodation Managers. To start, submit an enquiry using the form at the bottom of the page, indicating your interest in arranging a tour, please be sure to tell us which property you are interested in.

You can apply by completing the Application Form on our website. Click the "Apply" menu at the top of the page and select the property you'd like to live in.

You can apply for a room up to 3 months in advance of your intended arrival date. If you have questions before applying, please reach out to our Accommodation Managers using the enquiry form.

Upon approval, you'll receive a welcome pack containing all necessary information, including emergency procedures and contacts.

Yes, our properties are conveniently located near bus, taxi, train, and tram pick-up points. For assistance with public transport, visit https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/journey or speak a fellow tenants.

Yes, all our properties are within walking distance of shopping centres, markets, convenience stores, cafes, and restaurants. Refer to the "Locations" menu for local area information.

Visit the "Locations" menu and select your property to find information about schools' locations, distances, and suggested public transport options.

We offer single, double, and twin occupancy rooms. Check the "Locations" menu for the property you're interested in to view available room types.

Yes, a deposit equal to one month's rental is required upon application approval.

The deposit is strictly non-refundable, whether the room reservation is cancelled or the tenant doesn't check-in.

Prior to living at a Birch Ridge property, you will be required to pay a security bond, equivalent to one month’s rent.

This money will be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA), an independent government entity and held for the duration of your tenancy.

At the end of your tenancy, once your keys/cards are returned, any outstanding rent or invoices are paid and your room has been checked and is in a satisfactory condition, the bond will be released by the RTBA directly to you.

Keys are collected by appointment from the Accommodation Manager upon your scheduled arrival.

No, all our properties have a strict 'No smoking' policy.

Our properties are equipped for self-cooking. Nearby markets, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants are available. Upon check-in, you'll be shown kitchen spaces.

Some properties offer on-site parking for an additional fee. Indicate your interest when applying.

Lease start dates correspond to your projected move-in date. Depending on the property and lease type, lease start dates vary. Check the details for each property under the "Locations" menu.

Your "projected move in date" is the date you plan to arrive at the property. If this changes, inform us through our online enquiry form or by replying to our emails.

A lease serves as a formal and legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions under which a tenant can occupy a rental property.

A lease provides legal protection and clarity for both landlords and tenants, helping prevent disputes and misunderstandings during the tenancy.

Yes, in order to live in a Birch Ridge property, you will need to sign a lease.

In Victoria, a lease is more formally referred to as a residential tenancies agreement. We use the standardised residential tenancies agreement issued by the government authority Consumer Affairs Victoria.

A template version of this lease is available via the following link:

https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/library/forms/housing-and-accommodation/renting/form-1-residential-tenancy-agreement.docx