Security and Locks Rights for WA Renters

As a renter in Western Australia, it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to locks, security, and safety. Ensuring that your rental property is secure not only protects your personal belongings but also provides peace of mind. This guide will help you navigate the laws and regulations surrounding these issues to ensure you feel safe in your home.

Understanding Your Legal Rights

In Western Australia, the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 outlines the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants regarding property security. As a renter, you have the right to live in a property that is reasonably secure, and there are several key aspects you should be aware of:

• Locks and Keys: Your landlord is responsible for ensuring all external doors have functional locks and that you have access to the necessary keys.
• Changing Locks: If you wish to change the locks for personal security reasons, you must seek permission from your landlord. If approved, you must provide your landlord with a copy of the new key.
• Security Measures: The law requires that landlords provide minimum levels of security, such as deadlocks on doors and locks on windows.

When Can Locks Be Changed?

Locks can generally only be altered by landlords or tenants with mutual consent, except in cases of emergency. An example is if you have lost your key and are concerned about an unauthorized person gaining entry. In such cases, it's advisable to notify your landlord immediately.

What To Do If Security Is Compromised

Should you find yourself in a situation where the security of your rental property is compromised, you can take the following steps:

1. Contact your landlord or property manager to report the issue.
2. If repairs are needed, request them formally using the Form 1AA, which can be found on the WA Government website.
3. If the landlord is unresponsive, you can contact the State Administrative Tribunal to resolve the issue.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need more guidance or legal support regarding your rights and obligations, consider reaching out to the following resources in Western Australia:

• Consumer Protection WA
• Tenancy WA
• State Administrative Tribunal (WA)

---

1. What should I do if the landlord refuses to fix damaged locks?

   First, report the issue in writing to your landlord. If there's no response, seek assistance from the State Administrative Tribunal to enforce compliance with security obligations.

2. Can I install my own security system?

   You can install your own security system, but you must get prior written consent from your landlord and restore the property to its original condition when you leave, if needed.

3. Do landlords need to upgrade locks for new tenants?

   While not mandatory, it is best practice for landlords to ensure that locks function properly and meet the required security standards before new tenants move in.

{"faqJsonLd": [{"@context": "https://schema.org","@type": "FAQPage","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What should I do if the landlord refuses to fix damaged locks?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "First, report the issue in writing to your landlord. If there's no response, seek assistance from the State Administrative Tribunal to enforce compliance with security obligations."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I install my own security system?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can install your own security system, but you must get prior written consent from your landlord and restore the property to its original condition when you leave, if needed."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do landlords need to upgrade locks for new tenants?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"While not mandatory, it is best practice for landlords to ensure that locks function properly and meet the required security standards before new tenants move in."}}]},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I request lock repair in my rental property?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Complete Form 1AA for repair requests and submit it to your landlord, with a copy kept for your records. If unresolved, consider applying to the State Administrative Tribunal for an order."}}]}

Key Takeaways

• Ensure your rental property is secure with functional locks.
• Always communicate security concerns with your landlord in writing.
• Seek assistance from tenant support services if issues are not addressed.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA). View online.
2. Consumer Protection WA. Visit site.
3. Tenancy WA. Visit site.

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