Guide to Rent Increases & Rent Control in ACT

As a renter in the Australian Capital Territory, understanding your rights regarding rent increases and rent control is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps to manage potential rent hikes, while ensuring that you are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 of the ACT.

Understanding Rent Increases in the ACT

In the ACT, landlords are required to follow certain protocols before increasing rent. This ensures fairness and transparency in the rental market. Here's what you need to know:

Notification Requirements

Your landlord must provide you with a minimum of 8 weeks' written notice before a rent increase can take effect. The notice must state the amount of the new rent and the date it will commence.

Frequency of Rent Increases

Rent can only be increased once every 12 months. This rule is in place to provide some stability for renters. Make sure to check any recent notices against this timeframe.

Challenging a Rent Increase

If you believe a rent increase is unreasonable, you can challenge it. The supporting act allows tenants to apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) for a review of the increase.

Filing a Dispute with ACAT

If you decide to challenge a rent increase formally, ACAT is your go-to tribunal for resolving disputes related to residential tenancies.

• Complete the Application for Residential Tenancy Dispute form, which is available on the ACT Government website.
• Submit the form with any supporting documents that justify the unreasonableness of the rent increase.

FAQs on Rent Increases & Rent Control

1. What should I do if I receive a late notice for a rent increase?

   Check the date on the notice and compare it to when the rent is supposed to increase. It should be at least 8 weeks from the notice date. If it's not, you may dispute this with your landlord in writing, or apply to ACAT.

2. Can my rent be increased during a fixed-term lease?

   Not unless it's specified in your lease agreement, which must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act.

3. What is considered a reasonable rent increase?

   A reasonable rent increase typically reflects the current market rates. You can compare your increase to similar properties in the area.

How To Handle Rent Increases in ACT

1. Review the Increase Notice

   Check that it includes all the necessary information and meets the 8-week requirement.

2. Research Market Rates

   Assess if the increase is in line with similar properties in the area.

3. Communicate with Your Landlord

   Contact the landlord if you want to negotiate or ask for a justification regarding the increase.

4. Apply to ACAT if Necessary

   If you believe the increase is unjust, submit an application to ACAT for a review.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For further assistance, you can reach out to the following resources:

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) - Handles tenancy disputes.
• Tenants' Union ACT - Offers advocacy and guidance for renters.
• Access Canberra - Provides information on renting laws and regulations.

---

Citations and references to legislation and forms used in this guide are critical to ensure your rights as a renter are protected.

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