Free Legal Help for Rooming & Boarding Houses in Tasmania

Living in rooming or boarding houses in Tasmania can present unique challenges, from issues with rent increases to maintenance concerns. Understanding your rights as a renter and knowing where to find free legal support can make all the difference when resolving disputes with landlords.

Your Rights in Rooming & Boarding Houses

In Tasmania, the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 governs the rights of tenants in rooming and boarding houses. This legislation ensures that all renters have a safe and habitable place to live, guarantees privacy, and sets out processes for rent increases and resolving disputes.

Common Issues and Assistance

• Rent Increases: Landlords must follow specific guidelines when increasing rent. Any rent hike must comply with the Act, including providing an appropriate notice period.
• Evictions: If you're facing eviction, it's important to know that landlords must follow a legal process, which includes giving a valid notice.
• Repairs and Maintenance: You have the right to a safe living environment. The Act requires landlords to conduct timely repairs and maintain the property in good condition.

For assistance with these and other issues, free legal help is available to guide you through the process and help uphold your rights as a renter.

Where to Find Free Legal Help

If you're experiencing issues in a rooming or boarding house, several services in Tasmania can provide free legal assistance:

• Legal Aid Tasmania - Offers free legal advice and assistance for tenants facing disputes and possible eviction.
• Tenants' Union of Tasmania - Provides specialist advice and support for tenancy-related concerns.
• Community Legal Centres - Local legal centres offer free consultations and assistance for renters needing guidance on their rights and responsibilities.

For personalized advice, contact these services early when issues arise. They can provide the support you need to address disputes effectively.

Dispute resolutions in Tasmania are managed by the Residential Tenancy Commissioner. This government body is responsible for enforcing the Residential Tenancy Act and managing disputes between tenants and landlords. To access their services, you must complete specific forms and provide evidence supporting your case.

Filing Complaints and Forms

To formally address disputes, the following forms may be utilized:

• Notice to Vacate Form: Required if you need to issue notice to the landlord or if you receive one and wish to contest it. Find the form here.
• Application for Prohibited Conduct: Use this form if experiencing inappropriate conduct by the landlord. Detailed instructions and the form itself are available on the Magistrates Court website.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Assistance in Tasmania

When facing housing issues, timely and informed action is vital. Reach out to these organizations for support:

• Legal Aid Tasmania - Legal advice and assistance for various tenancy matters.
• Tenants' Union of Tasmania - Expert advice and advocacy for tenant rights.
• Community Legal Centres Tasmania - Free legal advice tailored to renters' needs.

---

1. What is the Residential Tenancy Act 1997? The Residential Tenancy Act 1997 is the legislation governing tenancy agreements and disputes in Tasmania, ensuring renters' rights and landlords' responsibilities are clear.
2. How do I contest a rent increase? Begin by reviewing the notice provided by your landlord. If it doesn't comply with legal standards, you can contest it through the Commissioner for Residential Tenancy by filing the appropriate application form.
3. Where can I get free legal advice? Reach out to Legal Aid Tasmania and the Tenants' Union of Tasmania for specialist legal advice without any charges.

1. How to lodge a tenancy dispute in Tasmania
   1. Step 1: Gather evidence

      Collect all documentation related to your tenancy dispute, including notices, communications, and photographs if applicable.

   2. Step 2: Complete the dispute form

      Download and fill out the appropriate form from the Magistrates Court website. Provide all necessary details and evidence.

   3. Step 3: Submit your application

      Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner.

   4. Step 4: Attend the hearing

      If required, attend any scheduled hearing to present your case and evidence.

Understanding your rights and where to turn for help can make managing a tenancy issue far less daunting.

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