Common Tenant Issues in Rooming Houses WA

Western Australia is home to many rooming and boarding houses, offering a diverse living option, particularly for renters seeking affordability and community living. However, living in these shared environments brings its own set of challenges. Understanding your rights and how to address issues effectively can make living in a rooming or boarding house a better experience.

Frequent Issues Faced by Tenants

Inadequate Repairs and Maintenance

One of the major concerns tenants in rooming houses face is the lack of timely repairs and maintenance. The Residential Tenancies Act 1987 in Western Australia mandates landlords to keep premises in a reasonable state of repair. Yet, delays and neglect can still occur.

Eviction Notices

Tenants often worry about eviction, sometimes receiving notices without valid grounds. In Western Australia, landlords must follow legal procedures under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, providing a valid reason and proper notice period.

Disputes Over Rent Increases

Another common issue is unexpected or unjustified rent increases. The law requires that tenants receive proper notice before any increase can be implemented. If you face an unexpected increase, you may need to challenge this with the landlord or seek assistance through appropriate tribunals.

Your rights as a tenant include receiving adequate notice for any rent increases and having a safe, well-maintained living environment.

Legal Protections for Tenants

The Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) offers overarching consumer protections, including for renters. In addition, specific provisions under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 protect tenants from unfair practices, such as unlawful entry by landlords or failing to follow proper eviction procedures.

Forms and Resources

• Form 1C - Notice of Termination: Used when you want to end a tenancy agreement. Provide the required notice period and complete this form to inform your landlord. Find it here.
• Form 2 - Notice to Remedy Breach: Use when you believe your landlord has breached the agreement. Complete this form to request a correction, available here.

Handling Disputes

Should disputes arise, tenants can contact the Consumer Protection Division in Western Australia for advice and potentially take the matter to the Magistrates Court.

FAQs

1. What should I do if my landlord is not making necessary repairs?

   Report the issue in writing to your landlord immediately. If the problem is not addressed, you can submit a Form 2 - Notice to Remedy Breach.

2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?

   Your landlord must provide at least 60 days' notice in writing for any rent increase under Western Australian law.

3. Can I dispute an eviction notice?

   Yes, if you believe the eviction is unjust, you can apply to the Magistrates Court for review.

How To Challenges

1. How to challenge a rent increase in Western Australia?

   Follow these steps to challenge an unjust rent increase.

   1. Step 1: Review the rent increase notice using official forms and compare it against the Residential Tenancies Act 1987.
   2. Step 2: Write to your landlord to negotiate or dispute the increase, using Form 2 - Notice to Remedy Breach if appropriate.

Conclusion

• Understand your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Communicate promptly with landlords regarding issues.
• Utilize available forms and government resources for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

For more assistance, contact these Western Australia resources:

• Consumer Protection Division
• Tenancy WA
• Legal Aid WA

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¹ Residential Tenancies Act 1987

² Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

³ Form 1C - Notice of Termination

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