Top Eviction and Breach Queries in WA

Living in Western Australia as a renter can come with its own unique challenges, especially when dealing with eviction processes and breach notices. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate these situations more effectively. This guide delves into the most prevalent questions renters have about evictions and breach notices in WA, providing clear and practical advice.

Understanding Eviction Notices

In Western Australia, evictions are a legal process where a landlord ends a tenancy agreement. It's crucial to know the types of notices you might receive and how to respond appropriately. The landlord must provide a valid reason and follow the procedures outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA).

Common Types of Eviction Notices

  • Termination Without Grounds: This notice can be issued without providing a specific reason but must align with ending the fixed-term or periodic agreement.
  • Breach of Agreement: If a tenant violates agreement terms, such as unpaid rent, a breach notice may be issued.

Tenants should carefully review any notice received and respond according to the instructions provided or seek to remedy any breach. If required, consult the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety's Consumer Protection Division for guidance.

Breach Notices and Tenant Rights

A breach notice is a formal way of informing a tenant that they have not complied with their rental agreement. Common reasons include unpaid rent or unauthorized pets.

Responding to a Breach Notice:

  • Rectify the Issue: Address the issue within the allowed time frame.
  • Dispute the Notice: If you believe the notice is unfair, contact the Residential Tenancy Mandatory Conciliation Service for mediation.
  • Apply to the Magistrates Court: If unresolved, consider applying to the Magistrates Court of Western Australia.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing eviction or breach notice challenges, resources are available to assist you:


  1. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice? Contact a local tenancy advisor as soon as possible to review the notice's validity and get advice on how to proceed.
  2. Can my landlord evict me without cause? Yes, under certain conditions and with appropriate notice at the end of a lease term.
  3. What if I disagree with a breach notice? Respond in writing to dispute the claim or rectify the alleged breach. Seek mediation if necessary.
  4. How can I challenge an unfair eviction? Apply to the Magistrates Court of WA for a hearing if mediation doesn't resolve the issue.
  1. How to respond to an eviction notice in WA
    1. Step 1: Carefully read the notice to understand the reasons and any deadlines.
    2. Step 2: Seek advice from the Consumer Protection WA if you have questions.
    3. Step 3: Decide whether to comply with, dispute, or negotiate the terms of the notice.
    4. Step 4: Consider applying to the Magistrates Court if no resolution is reached through other means.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the type of eviction or breach notice received and act promptly.
  • Utilize mediation services before escalating disputes.
  • Access available resources and legal advice to navigate these situations effectively.

  1. @context: https://schema.org, @type: FAQPage, mainEntity: [ { @type: Question, name: What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?, acceptedAnswer: { @type: Answer, text: Contact a local tenancy advisor as soon as possible to review the notice's validity and get advice on how to proceed. } }, { @type: Question, name: Can my landlord evict me without cause?, acceptedAnswer: { @type: Answer, text: Yes, under certain conditions and with appropriate notice at the end of a lease term. } }, { @type: Question, name: What if I disagree with a breach notice?, acceptedAnswer: { @type: Answer, text: Respond in writing to dispute the claim or rectify the alleged breach. Seek mediation if necessary. } }, { @type: Question, name: How can I challenge an unfair eviction?, acceptedAnswer: { @type: Answer, text: Apply to the Magistrates Court of WA for a hearing if mediation doesn't resolve the issue. } } ]
  1. @context: https://schema.org, @type: HowTo, name: How to respond to an eviction notice in WA, step: [ { @type: HowToStep, name: Step 1, text: Carefully read the notice to understand the reasons and any deadlines. }, { @type: HowToStep, name: Step 2, text: Seek advice from the Consumer Protection WA if you have questions. }, { @type: HowToStep, name: Step 3, text: Decide whether to comply with, dispute, or negotiate the terms of the notice. }, { @type: HowToStep, name: Step 4, text: Consider applying to the Magistrates Court if no resolution is reached through other means. } ]
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Australia

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.