A landlord can only demand payment of two weeks rent in advance and a security bond. The total amount of the payment in advance can add up to a substantial sum, although help may be obtained from the South Australian Housing Trust, see: financial assistance. The landlord cannot demand any other payment including key money [Residential Tenancies Act 1995 ss.53,54].

If the landlord or a tenant wants a lease or written agreement, it is the landlord who must bear the costs of its preparation.