Protection for Rooming Houses in Tasmania

In Tasmania, renting a room in a boarding or rooming house can be a unique living situation with specific rights and responsibilities for both renters and owners. Understanding the protections in place is crucial for tenants to ensure they are treated fairly and lawfully. This article outlines the key aspects of these rights and how they apply in Tasmania.

What is a Rooming House?

In Tasmania, a rooming house is typically a residential property where multiple people, who are not related, reside and share common facilities like bathrooms and kitchens. Each resident usually rents a room, and the landlord provides facilities for the entire house.

Your Rights in Rooming Houses

As a tenant in a rooming house, you're entitled to several legal protections under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997. It's essential to understand these rights to ensure you're being treated fairly.

Security of Tenure

Tenants have the right to a secure tenure, which means your tenancy cannot be arbitrarily ended without proper legal procedures. If you face eviction, ensure you receive it in writing and understand the grounds on which it is based.

Rent Increases

Landlords can increase the rent, but they must provide adequate notice, and the increase should be in line with the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) guidelines. The increase must be fair and comparable to similar properties in the area.

Repairs and Maintenance

Landlords are responsible for maintaining the property in a safe and habitable condition. Should you need any repairs, report them to your landlord promptly. If they fail to address essential repairs, you can refer the matter to the Magistrates Court of Tasmania for resolution.

Official Forms and When to Use Them

• Notice to Vacate (Form R2): Use this form if you plan to leave your rented room. You'll need to provide the required notice period, which can vary depending on the lease agreement.
• Notice of Rent Increase (Form R11): This form is used by landlords to notify tenants of a rental increase. It must be given with appropriate notice.
• Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) Application: If disputes arise, use this form to apply for a hearing where the tribunal will mediate or decide the matter. More information can be found on the TASCAT website.

Conclusion

• Rooming house tenants in Tasmania are protected under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997.
• Ensure fairness in rent increases and property maintenance.
• Know where to access forms and seek help for disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need support or further clarification, here are some helpful resources:

• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)
• Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT)
• Legal Aid Tasmania

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