FAQs on Rent Increases in ACT

As a renter in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), understanding your rights regarding rent increases and rent control can empower you to make informed decisions about your housing situation. This guide addresses frequently asked questions about rent increases within the ACT, ensuring you stay informed about the regulations that protect your tenancy rights.

Understanding Rent Increases in the ACT

In the ACT, landlords can increase rent, but there are rules they must follow to ensure the changes are fair and transparent. The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 serves as the cornerstone of these regulations, outlining the circumstances under which landlords can adjust rents and the processes they must adhere to.

Frequency and Notice Period

• Frequency: In general, a landlord can only increase rent once every 12 months for existing tenants.
• Notice Period: A written notice of a rent increase must be sent to the tenant at least eight weeks before the increase takes effect.

When a Rent Increase is Excessive

If you believe a proposed rent increase is excessive, you can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) for a review. ACAT will consider factors like general market rent levels, property conditions, and any significant changes to the property when making its decision.

Challenging an Unfair Rent Increase

When a rent increase feels unreasonable, it's important to know your options. You can negotiate directly with your landlord or lodge a complaint with ACAT. Gathering evidence such as comparative rent prices and property condition reports can be essential in supporting your case.

Remember, communication with your landlord can sometimes resolve issues before escalation. Always aim for a constructive dialog.

FAQ Section

1. What should I do if I receive a rent increase notice? Read through the notice carefully to understand the proposed changes. Verify that the notice adheres to the minimum eight-week period and apply to ACAT if you believe the increase is unjustified.
2. Can my rent be increased during a fixed-term lease? Unless specifically stated in your tenancy agreement, rent should not increase during a fixed-term lease.
3. What is considered an excessive rent increase in the ACT? It's determined case-by-case. ACAT considers market rates, tenant income, and property condition when assessing reasonableness.
4. How can I apply to challenge a rent increase? Submit a form through ACAT, detailing why you believe the increase is excessive and providing supporting evidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For additional support, consider contacting the following resources:

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) - for lodgement of disputes and tenancy claims.
• Legal Aid ACT - provides free legal advice to tenants.
• Tenants' Union ACT - offers advocacy and resources for tenants in the ACT.

---

Residential Tenancies Act 1997: Governs all tenancy matters within the ACT. Available at ACT Legislation Register.
Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth): Acts as a foundational guideline for fair practices across Australia, with details accessible via legislation.gov.au.

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