Tenant Guide to Agreements in ACT

Navigating tenancy agreements and renewals in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) as a renter is crucial to ensure your rights are protected. Understanding key aspects like lease terms, rent adjustments, and your responsibilities can help you maintain a smooth rental experience.

Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement in the ACT

In the ACT, a rental agreement, also known as a tenancy agreement, is a legal contract between you and your landlord. It sets out the terms and conditions of your rental, including the rent amount, payment schedule, and your obligations regarding property maintenance. This agreement must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Always ensure you receive a copy of your signed agreement and keep it in a safe place for future reference.

Key Terms and Conditions

• Rent Payment: Rent is typically paid weekly or fortnightly. Ensure you understand the payment schedule.
• Bond: A rental bond is a security deposit held in trust by the ACT Revenue Office. It should not exceed four weeks' rent.
• Lease Duration: Agreements can be fixed-term or periodic (month-to-month).

Renewing Your Tenancy Agreement

As your lease nears its end, you may want to renew it to continue your tenancy. Renewal terms should be discussed with your landlord in advance. The landlord cannot simply increase the rent during a fixed-term lease unless the contract permits it. Upon renewal, you may either continue with a periodic agreement or negotiate a new fixed-term contract.

What to Do if You Face a Rent Increase

If your landlord proposes a rent increase, it must be in line with the procedures outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, which requires a 60-day written notice. If the proposed increase is unreasonable, you have the right to challenge it with the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).

Steps to Challenge a Rent Increase

• Step 1: Review the Notice - Check the notice for compliance with legal requirements.
• Step 2: Respond in Writing - If you disagree, write to your landlord to negotiate.
• Step 3: Apply to ACAT - If negotiations fail, apply for a review.

Filing a Dispute with ACAT

For disputes regarding rent increases, bond refunds, or other rental issues, you can apply to ACAT using the 'Residential Tenancy Application' form available on their official website. Ensure your application clearly outlines the issue and provides supporting evidence.

Maintaining clear records and understanding your rights can empower you as a tenant in negotiations and disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For further support, you can reach out to these resources:

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) - Handles disputes between tenants and landlords.
• Legal Aid ACT - Provides free legal advice for tenants.
• Tenants' Union ACT - Offers information and support for ACT renters.

---

1. Can my landlord increase the rent anytime?
   The landlord must follow the ACT's guidelines, which require providing a 60-day notice and justifying the increase.
2. What happens if I sign a new lease agreement?
   A new agreement often means updated terms, so review these carefully before signing.
3. Can I dispute an eviction notice?
   Yes, you can dispute it with ACAT if you believe it's unjust.

1. How to challenge a rent increase in ACT
   1. Step 1: Review the notice - Ensure it follows ACT legislation.
   2. Step 2: Respond in writing - Discuss concerns with your landlord.
   3. Step 3: Apply to ACAT - Submit an application if necessary.

• Keep a copy of all correspondence with your landlord.
• Know your rights and responsibilities under ACT law.
• Utilize available resources if issues arise.

---

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