Understanding Tenant Rights & Protections in Tasmania

As a renter in Tasmania, understanding your rights and the potential risks you face is essential to ensuring your renting journey is smooth and secure. While Tasmania provides tenant protections, renters must be aware of current laws and how to apply them effectively. This article explores these risks and provides practical guidance for renters in Tasmania.

Common Risks Renters Face in Tasmania

Rent Increases

Rent increments can be a concern for many renters. In Tasmania, landlords are required to provide a minimum of 60 days notice before increasing the rent. If you believe the increase is unreasonable, you may reach out to the Tasmanian Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading for guidance on disputing a rent increase.

Evictions

Evictions in Tasmania must adhere to the Residential Tenancy Act 1997. Tenants are entitled to proper notice and may contest unlawful evictions through the Residential Tenancy Commissioner (Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading).

Maintenance and Repairs

Landlords are obligated to maintain a safe and habitable environment. Tenants should be aware of their rights to request necessary repairs and understand the procedures for doing so, such as submitting a formal request for repairs using the Notice to Carry Out Repairs Form. If repairs are not handled promptly, tenants can escalate the matter with the Residential Tenancy Commissioner.

Key Tenant Protection Laws

• The Residential Tenancy Act 1997 regulates the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords in Tasmania. Familiarize yourself with the Act to better understand your legal standing. You can view the full legislation on the Tasmanian Government Legislation website.
• Under the Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth), misleading conduct by landlords regarding rental terms can be challenged. More information can be found on the Federal Register of Legislation.

Utilities and Additional Charges

In Tasmania, it’s important to understand how utilities and additional charges such as water or maintenance levies are handled. Ensure these charges are clearly outlined in your rental agreement and any increase or new charge is formally notified and legally justified.

1. Can my landlord increase my rent with less than 60 days’ notice? No, your landlord must provide at least 60 days’ notice before a rent increase according to Tasmanian law.
2. What should I do if my landlord issues an eviction notice unjustly? If you believe an eviction notice is unjust, you have the right to dispute it through the Residential Tenancy Commissioner.
3. How can I request urgent repairs? Use the Notice to Carry Out Repairs Form and contact the Tenancy Commissioner if repairs are not addressed.

1. How to dispute a rent increase in Tasmania?
   1. Step 1: Review the rent increase notice

      Check if the increase follows the proper notice period and is in line with market rates.

   2. Step 2: Write to your landlord

      Contact your landlord to discuss the increase and try to negotiate or dispute it amicably.

   3. Step 3: Contact the Tenancy Commissioner

      If discussions with the landlord do not resolve the issue, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancy Commissioner.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need assistance, the following resources can provide valuable guidance and support:

• Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading Tasmania – Renting
• Tenants' Union of Tasmania
• Legal Aid Tasmania

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1. Legislation reference: Residential Tenancy Act 1997

2. Tenancy authority: Tasmanian Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading

3. Federal law reference: Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

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