Understanding Privacy & Entry Rights in WA

As a tenant in Western Australia, understanding your privacy and entry rights is crucial in maintaining a harmonious relationship with your landlord. This article will guide you through the essentials of these rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, ensuring you know what to expect when living in a rental property.

Tenant Privacy Rights

Your home should be a private space, and as such, landlords have limited rights to enter your property. They must provide notice and have a valid reason for entry. Discussed in detail below are the requirements landlords must meet.

When Can a Landlord Enter?

• Urgent Repairs: Immediate entry is allowed for urgent repairs, such as fixing burst pipes.
• Routine Inspections: Entry is permitted 4 times a year but requires a minimum of 7 days notice^[1].
• Showing the Property: Landlords can show prospective buyers or tenants through the property but must give reasonable written notice.

Notice Requirements

Your landlord must provide a notice stating the reason for entry and must schedule it at an agreed-upon time, not exceeding 3 days from the intended date of entry. Make sure to review the types of forms landlords are required to use for these notices, like the Entry Notice template, to understand the process better.

Tip: If your landlord enters without notice, you may report this to the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.

Action Steps for Tenants

1. Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with WA's Residential Tenancies Act 1987 for specifics on privacy and lawful entry.
2. Seek Clarification: If you're unsure why your landlord wants to enter, ask for clarification before agreeing.
3. Report Unauthorized Entry: Contact the State Administrative Tribunal for advice if your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Tenancies Act 1987
• Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety
• State Administrative Tribunal - Handles disputes between landlords and tenants.

---

1. What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?Contact the landlord to express your concerns. If the issue continues, report it to the State Administrative Tribunal.
2. Can I refuse entry to my landlord?Yes, if the entry does not comply with the notice requirements or other legal conditions.
3. What are routine inspections?These are regular checks by the landlord to ensure the property's good condition, occurring no more than four times a year.

---

^[1] Residential Tenancies Act 1987, Section 46.

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