Rent Increases in Western Australia: FAQs & Tips

As a tenant in Western Australia, understanding your rights around rent increases and controls is crucial. Whether you’re negotiating a new lease or responding to a notice of rent increase, being informed can protect your financial and housing stability.

Understanding Rent Increases in Western Australia

In Western Australia, rent increases can affect your budget significantly. Rent increases are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, which stipulates specific guidelines and limitations that landlords must comply with when raising rent.

Frequency of Rent Increases

Landlords can only increase rent under a fixed-term lease if the lease agreement specifically allows it and specifies the amount or method. For periodic tenancies, rent can be increased only after the first six months and then every six months thereafter, provided proper notice is given.

Proper Notice for Rent Increases

A landlord must provide at least 60 days written notice before a rent increase can take effect. The notice must include the amount of the increase and the date it is effective. An example form used for providing notice is the Form 19, which you can find on the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety website.

Tip: Always ensure any notice you receive is compliant with the legislation and check the timing and amount are stated correctly.

FAQ Section

1. What can I do if my rent is increased unexpectedly?

   If your rent is increased without proper notice or an invalid agreement, you can dispute the rent increase. Contact your landlord to discuss the issue, and if unresolved, you may apply to the Western Australian Magistrates Court for resolution.

2. Are there any rent control measures in Western Australia?

   Currently, Western Australia does not have specific rent control laws that limit how much landlords can increase rent, except those outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 regarding notice and frequency.

3. Can my landlord increase the rent during a fixed-term lease?

   Rent can only be increased during a fixed-term lease if the lease agreement explicitly permits it and details the increase amount or calculation method.

4. What steps can I take if I believe the rent increase is unfair?

   Dispute the increase by discussing it with your landlord. If no resolution is reached, apply for a hearing at the Western Australian Magistrates Court.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must give 60 days notice and can only increase rent at specific intervals.
• All rent increase notices should comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 1987.
• You have the right to dispute improper rent increases through official channels.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need help understanding rent increases or have any disputes, contact the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety or the Legal Aid Western Australia for guidance.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 19872. Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety3. Consumer Protection WA

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