Do you know your rights as a tenant?
If you are a renter or looking to rent, here are a few things to know about your rights as a tenant:
Privacy
You have the right to not be pestered by your landlord and have quiet enjoyment of the rental property.
Landlord Access
Reasonable notice must be provided for a landlord or agent to enter the rental property – this must be in writing. This differs state to state.
Rent Increases
Your landlord or agent must give adequate notice if there will be a rent rise. Check the individual state laws, but there are limits to how often and how much rent can be increased. If you are on a fixed term agreement, rent increases cannot be made until the end of the agreement, unless stated initially.
Repairs
Your landlord has a responsibility to make sure the property you are living in is liveable and safe. It is the landlord’s responsibility for any repairs. The urgency of the repairs will depend on the timeframe to be repaired.
Utilities
Utilities such as electricity and gas, water are your responsibility to pay and connect, however the landlord must make sure that this is possible in the first place.
Bond
Your rental bond is paid and lodged at the start of your tenancy, prior to moving in. This provides security for your landlord in case of any damages at the end of your rental. The bond you pay should not be more than the equivalent of 4 weeks rent.
In summary, as a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe, secure, and quiet environment that is managed in accordance with the law. You also have a responsibility to take good care of the property, pay the rent on time, and adhere to the terms of your tenancy rental agreement.
In summary, as a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe, secure, and quiet environment that is managed in accordance with the law.
Every state in Australia has its own laws. To find out laws in your state/territory for your rights as a tenant.
NSW - Tenants’ Union of NSW / NSW Fair Trading
VIC – Tenants Victoria / Consumer Affairs Victoria
QLD – Queensland Government
ACT – Tenants’ Union ACT Inc
SA– Government of SA / Consumer & Business Services
TAS – Tenants Union of Tasmania / Tasmanian Gov
WA – Tenancy WA / Government of WA
