Free Legal Help for Ending Tenancy in WA

If you're a renter in Western Australia facing the end of your tenancy, understanding your rights and accessing the right support can be crucial. Whether you're dealing with an eviction notice or planning to move out, knowing your legal options can ease the transition.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter in WA

In Western Australia, renters are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987. This legislation outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants, covering aspects such as notice periods, bond refunds, and conditions for ending a tenancy.

Ending a Tenancy

To legally end a tenancy, renters must provide notice according to their lease agreement. In WA, notice periods can vary depending on whether the lease is fixed-term or periodic.

• For a fixed-term lease: Tenants must give at least 30 days' notice before the lease ends.
• For a periodic lease: Tenants must provide at least 21 days' written notice.

Ensure your notice is in writing and keep a copy for your records. You can use the official Notice of Termination form if needed.

Free Legal Help Available

If you encounter issues such as unfair eviction or disputes over bond returns, several free legal resources can assist you:

• Consumer Protection, Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety: They provide guidelines and resolutions for tenancy disputes. Visit their official website for more information.
• Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service (TAAS): Offers free advice to renters facing tenancy challenges.
• Community Legal Centres: Several centres across WA offer free legal advice and representation in tenancy-related matters.

Always seek professional advice if you are unsure about any aspect of your tenancy rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety – Offers guidance and resources for tenancy issues.
• Community Legal Centres – Provide free legal services and can help with tenancy disputes.
• The State Administrative Tribunal – Handles disputes between tenants and landlords in WA.

---

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to return my bond? If your landlord refuses to return your bond, contact Consumer Protection for assistance and consider lodging a dispute with the State Administrative Tribunal.
2. How much notice do I need to give to end a periodic lease? For a periodic lease, you must give at least 21 days' written notice to your landlord.
3. Can I challenge an eviction notice in WA? Yes, you can challenge an eviction notice if you believe it's unjust. Seek help from the Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service or Community Legal Centres.

1. How to file a complaint with the State Administrative Tribunal in WA
   1. Step 1: Fill out the application form. Access the form from the State Administrative Tribunal website and fill it out with your details and the nature of the dispute.
   2. Step 2: Submit the form. Lodge your completed form either online or in person at the tribunal office.
2. How to challenge a rent increase in WA
   1. Step 1: Review the notice. Check if your landlord complied with notice requirements for a rent increase, as per the Residential Tenancies Act.
   2. Step 2: Write to your landlord. If you wish to dispute, send a letter stating your reasons and request a review or negotiation.

Key takeaways for tenants in WA:

• Understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987
• Provide notice according to your lease type when ending a tenancy
• Seek help from free legal services if disputes arise

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