Western Australia Rental Security and Safety Laws

In Western Australia, the security of a rental property is paramount. Whether it's a matter of locks, keys, or general safety, as a tenant, you have certain rights and obligations designed to ensure your residence is secure. Understanding these laws can help you determine if your landlord is meeting their legal responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987.

Understanding Security and Lock Obligations

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, landlords in Western Australia must provide and maintain locks or other security devices necessary to secure the premises. Failure to comply with these obligations may lead to a dispute, which can be addressed through the Residential Tenancies Mandatory Conciliation Service.

Are Your Locks Compliant?

All external doors must have adequate locks. Landlords are typically responsible for ensuring:

• Locks are functional and fit for purpose.
• The property is secure against unlawful entry.
• Any locks that become faulty are repaired or replaced promptly.

Tenant Responsibilities Regarding Keys

As a tenant, you must take reasonable care of keys. If keys are lost or stolen, it's crucial to inform your landlord immediately. Depending on the circumstances, replacement of lost keys and associated costs might be a shared responsibility.

Steps to Take If Security Standards Are Not Met

1. Communicate with your landlord: Write to your landlord detailing the issue and requesting repairs or enhancements.
2. Submit a Residential Tenancy Conciliation: If your landlord doesn’t respond, you can file a request for conciliation with the Residential Tenancies Mandatory Conciliation Service.
3. File a court application: If conciliation does not resolve the issue, you may apply to the Magistrates Court of Western Australia for an order.

FAQ

1. What if my landlord refuses to change old locks? If your landlord refuses to change outdated or faulty locks, you can seek assistance from the Residential Tenancies Mandatory Conciliation Service.
2. Can I change the locks myself? You need your landlord’s permission to change any lock. Unauthorized changes may lead to legal consequences.
3. What should I do if I lose my key? Notify your landlord immediately. You may be responsible for the cost of replacing keys and locks, depending on the circumstances.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing issues with rental security, the following resources may assist you:

• Consumer Protection - Residential Tenancies
• Residential Tenancies Mandatory Conciliation Service
• Magistrates Court of Western Australia - Residential Tenancy Disputes

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1. Communicate with your landlord: Writing to inform them of the security issue should be your first step.
2. Submit a formal request for repairs: Use specified forms to request necessary lock or security repairs.
3. Apply for conciliation or court intervention: If direct communication fails, seek resolution through conciliation or legal proceedings.

Key Takeaways

• Ensure external doors and windows have functional locks.
• Promptly report lost keys or security issues to your landlord.
• Use official channels like conciliation services if your landlord is unresponsive.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 1987

2. Consumer Protection - Residential Tenancies

3. Magistrates Court of Western Australia - Residential Tenancy Disputes

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