Common Queries on Rooming and Boarding Houses in WA

Living in a rooming or boarding house in Western Australia can offer affordable and flexible living arrangements. However, it's essential to understand your rights and obligations as a resident to ensure a harmonious living experience. Here, we answer some common questions about rooming and boarding houses, helping you navigate your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA).

What Are Rooming and Boarding Houses?

Rooming houses are shared accommodation settings where individuals rent rooms and share common facilities like kitchens and bathrooms. While similar, boarding houses often include meals as part of the rent. In Western Australia, specific provisions outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 regulate these living arrangements.

What Are My Rights as a Resident?

As a resident of a rooming or boarding house, you have several rights, including:

• The right to a safe and habitable living environment
• The right to be provided with a written agreement outlining the terms of your stay
• Protection against arbitrary eviction without proper notice

If issues arise, the WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety provides guidance and dispute resolution services.

How Are Repairs Handled?

Repairs in rooming and boarding houses are generally the responsibility of the provider or landlord. If you notice any need for repairs, report it immediately in writing to your landlord. If repairs are not addressed within a reasonable timeframe, you can contact the WA Tenancy Commissioner for further action.

Tip: Always communicate repair issues in writing and keep records for reference.

How Is Rent Regulated?

Rent increases and terms should be clearly stated in your written agreement. Increases generally require sufficient notice, and landlords must abide by any terms set out in your contract. Should there be a dispute over an increase, residents can seek mediation through The State Administrative Tribunal (SAT).

FAQ Section

1. What distinguishes a boarding house from a rooming house? A rooming house provides basic accommodation with shared facilities, whereas a boarding house includes meals as part of the lodging agreement.
2. How much notice is required for eviction? Eviction notice periods can vary, but generally, a minimum of 30 days' notice is required unless the resident has breached significant terms of the agreement.
3. Can a resident be evicted without notice? Residents cannot be evicted without proper notice unless it relates to severe breaches such as non-payment of rent or criminal activity.

How To Section

1. How to file a complaint about living conditions
   1. Document the issue with photos or written records
   2. Notify your landlord in writing, providing a reasonable timeframe for them to address the issue
   3. If unresolved, contact the WA Tenancy Commissioner for assistance
2. How to dispute a rent increase
   1. Review your tenancy agreement for terms regarding rent increases
   2. Write to your landlord to negotiate or seek reasoning for the increase
   3. If unresolved, apply to the SAT for rent dispute assessment

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights and refer to your written agreement for specific obligations
• Contact the WA Tenancy Commissioner for unresolved issues
• Keep thorough records of your interactions with your landlord

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For more information or assistance regarding rooming and boarding houses in Western Australia, you can contact:

• WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety - Consumer Protection
• Tenancy WA - providing legal advice and support for tenants
• The State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) - handling tenancy disputes

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¹ Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA) ² WA Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety ³ The State Administrative Tribunal (SAT)

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