Rooming & Boarding House Rights in South Australia

In South Australia, residents of rooming and boarding houses hold specific rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1995. Whether you're dealing with a rent increase, eviction, or repair issues, understanding these rights can empower you to advocate effectively for yourself.

Your Rights as a Rooming or Boarding House Resident

The Residential Tenancies Act 1995 outlines the responsibilities and rights of residents and proprietors in rooming and boarding house situations. These rights cover several key areas:

1. Residency Agreement

Your agreement should be in writing and clearly outline terms and conditions of your stay. If you're not provided with one, query your landlord. This protects both parties and ensures clarity in disputes.

2. Rent and Rent Increases

• Your rent cannot be increased more than once every twelve months without your agreement.
• Notice of rent increase must be given in writing at least 60 days in advance.
• If you think a rent increase is unreasonable, you can apply to the SA Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) to review it.

3. Repairs and Maintenance

The landlord must maintain the property in a reasonable state of repair considering the property's age and rental price. Urgent repairs should be addressed immediately. Document any repair requests in writing.

4. Eviction Notices

Your landlord can not evict you without having proper grounds and following the correct procedures:

• For termination without ground, a 60-day notice should be issued.
• If you wish to dispute an eviction, you may apply to SACAT for a review.

5. Privacy and Entry

Your room is your private space. The landlord can only enter under certain conditions, and with 24-hour notice for non-emergencies.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• SA Government's Renting and Letting: A comprehensive guide for all tenants
• SA Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT): For tenancy disputes and applications
• Tenants Information & Advisory Service: Offers free advice and support for tenants
• South Australian Legislation: Access all up-to-date state legislation and regulations

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1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to make urgent repairs? Contact SACAT for assistance in enforcing repair obligations. Present any correspondence you've had with your landlord about the issue.
2. How much notice must I give if I decide to leave a rooming house? Typically, a minimum of 28 days' written notice is required, unless otherwise agreed upon in your residency agreement.
3. Can my landlord charge extra fees during my stay? Any additional fees beyond the agreed rent should be stipulated in your tenancy agreement and must not be unreasonable or arbitrary.

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