Legal Aid for Rent and Bonds in ACT

If you're renting in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), understanding your rights concerning rent, bond, and holding deposits is crucial. Knowing where to get legal help can make navigating these challenges easier.

Understanding Your Rights in the ACT

The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 governs rental agreements in the ACT. It outlines the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords, including rent payments, bond management, and other tenancy issues.

Rent and Rent Increases

Rent in the ACT can generally increase once every 12 months. Landlords must provide written notice at least 8 weeks prior to the increase. If you feel the increase is unreasonable, you can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) to challenge it.

Bond and Holding Deposits

Your bond in the ACT is generally equivalent to four weeks' rent and must be lodged with the ACT Revenue Office within two weeks of receipt.

Holding deposits secure a rental property application. Note that they are non-refundable if you back out after acceptance but should be applied to the first rent payment if you proceed.

What to Do When Facing Disputes

Disputes with your landlord over issues like repairs or rent increases can be stressful. Here’s how you can handle some common situations:

• Start by communicating directly with your landlord to resolve the issue.
• If that doesn't work, consider using the formal dispute resolution services offered by ACAT.

Forms and Procedures

Filing the correct forms on time is crucial:

• Bond Claim Form: Use this form when moving out to claim your bond. You can find this on the ACT Revenue Office’s website.
• Rent Increase Dispute Form: File this at ACAT to challenge a rent increase.

Always keep a copy of the forms and communications for your records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT): Handles disputes related to tenancy.
• Legal Aid ACT: Offers free legal information and advice.
• Tenants' Union ACT: Provides support and resources for renters.

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1. How often can my landlord increase rent? In the ACT, landlords can increase rent no more than once every 12 months and must give 8 weeks' notice.
2. How can I challenge a rent increase? You can apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) if you believe the increase is excessive.
3. What happens to my bond when I leave the property? The bond is refundable and should be claimed using the Bond Claim Form from the ACT Revenue Office.
4. Can a holding deposit be refunded? No, a holding deposit is non-refundable if you change your mind after acceptance.
5. How do I handle non-urgent repairs? Request repairs in writing to your landlord. If unresolved, apply to ACAT.

1. How to dispute a rent increase in the ACT
   1. Review the notice: Ensure the rent increase complies with the ACT's rules.
   2. Respond in writing: Write to your landlord seeking justification or negotiation.
   3. Apply to ACAT: If no resolution is reached, submit the Rent Increase Dispute Form to ACAT.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
• Utilize available resources like ACAT and Tenants’ Union ACT for disputes.
• Ensure all tenancy agreements and forms are completed accurately.

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