thecook, there was negotiation. There aren't a lot of rentals in the area (beach suburb) and the small increase in rent (amounted to around 3.5% increase) was justified based on others advertised.
The landlord has a hassle free tenant, we look after the place, rent is automated so always on time, we don't bother the neighbours, but we also have the same, a landlord who doesn't do inspections other than a 1 minute look around at lease renewal, quick to rectify a couple of small problems over the past couple of years and pleasant guy to deal with.
I haven't been paying any water costs to this point, but agreed that I would take on half the usage cost for the next 12 months (he was asking for the full amount). Would be curious to know, those renting at the moment, do you pay for all your water usage? None? Half?
