Security and Safety for Renters in ACT

Renting a property in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) comes with certain rights and responsibilities, especially when it comes to security, locks, and safety. Understanding these can help ensure that your rental home is safe and that you're protected under the law.

Understanding Your Rights Around Security in ACT

As a renter in the ACT, you are entitled to a secure premises. The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 outlines the obligations of landlords and tenants in ensuring the security of rental properties.

Locks and Security Devices

Under the Act, the landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is reasonably secure. This includes providing and maintaining locks and other security devices.

• Installation and Maintenance: It is typically the landlord's responsibility to install and maintain locks and security devices. If you believe the locks need replacing or additional security measures are necessary, it's important to discuss this with your landlord.
• Changing Locks: Should you feel a security risk from previous tenants or other concerns, you may request to change the locks. However, this usually requires written permission from the landlord, and you are generally obligated to provide the landlord with a copy of the new keys.

Keys and Access

As a tenant, you must have access to all keys or security devices needed to gain entry to the rental property. If the keys are lost or stolen, it's important to inform your landlord promptly.

What to Do if Security Issues Arise

If you encounter issues related to security in your rental property, here are some steps you can take:

1. Contact the Landlord: Notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the issue. Be clear about your concerns and any actions you've taken.
2. Request Repairs or Upgrades: If necessary, request repairs or upgrades to locks and security systems. This may require filling out a maintenance request form provided by your property management.
3. Use Official Forms: If your requests are not addressed, consider using official forms like the 'Notice to Remedy' form from the ACT Government website to formally request action from your landlord.

Seeking Dispute Resolution

If discussions with your landlord do not resolve security issues, you may need to escalate the matter to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). They handle residential tenancy disputes and can issue binding resolutions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing difficulties regarding locks, security, or any tenancy issues, the following resources can provide assistance:

• ACT Justice and Community Safety Directorate: Offers information and resources on tenancy rights and obligations.
• Legal Aid ACT: Provides free legal assistance and advice for tenants.
• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT): The tribunal for resolving tenancy disputes in the ACT.

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1. Can tenants change locks without permission in the ACT? Tenants generally need the landlord’s permission to change locks unless it's an emergency. If you do change the locks, you must provide a copy of the keys to the landlord unless otherwise agreed.
2. What can I do if my landlord refuses to repair broken locks? Initially, discuss the issue and make a formal request in writing. If unresolved, consider lodging a complaint with the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).
3. How does the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 protect renters' security? The Act mandates that rental properties must be reasonably secure, requiring landlords to maintain locks and security devices.

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Footnotes: 1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT), legislation.act.gov.au. 2. ACT Justice and Community Safety Directorate, justice.act.gov.au. 3. ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT), acat.act.gov.au.

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