Common Rental Challenges in the ACT

Renters in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) often face a range of issues when dealing with rent, bonds, and holding deposits. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 can help navigate these complexities.

Understanding Rent Increases

In the ACT, landlords can increase rent, but only in accordance with the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. An increase can typically occur once every 12 months and must be accompanied by a written notice at least eight weeks before the increase takes effect.

Challenging a Rent Increase

If you believe a rent increase is unjustified, you may have grounds to challenge it through the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). For more detailed guidance, refer to our article on challenging rent increases.

Bond and Holding Deposit Issues

Managing bond payments and understanding holding deposits can be tricky for tenants. Bonds are capped at four weeks' rent, and must be lodged with the ACT Revenue Office. Disputes over bond refunds are common, typically arising from disagreements over the condition of the property.

If a dispute arises over bond deductions, tenants and landlords can apply to ACAT for a resolution.

Holding Deposits

A holding deposit holds the property for you during negotiations. If you decide not to proceed, you may forfeit the deposit, so be certain before making payment.

Handling Repairs and Maintenance

You have the right to a safe and well-maintained property. If urgent repairs are needed, notify the landlord or property agent immediately. If they fail to act, you may seek a repair order through ACAT.

1. Submit a written request to the landlord.
2. Wait for the landlord to respond or repair.
3. If no action is taken, apply for an urgent repair order from ACAT.

FAQ

1. What should I do if my landlord increases the rent unfairly? You can dispute it through ACAT. Ensure you have a clear understanding of your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
2. How can I ensure I receive my full bond back? Keep the property well-maintained, document its condition upon move-in, and reference the entry condition report when vacating.
3. What is a holding deposit? It's a payment to reserve a rental property. Should you decline the offer, the deposit might not be refunded.
4. Where do I go to resolve rental disputes? Rental disputes in the ACT are managed by the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT)
• Tenants ACT - Offers advice and support to tenants.
• ACT Housing and Community Services - Provides resources and assistance for tenants.

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Key Takeaways:

• Rent increases should be legally notified and occur annually.
• Bond disputes can be managed through ACAT.
• Always ensure condition reports are correctly filled out at the start and end of a lease.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997

2. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid