WA Rent Reforms
The Western Australian State Government has recently passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024, signalling a shift towards ensuring a fair and balanced rental market for tenants and property owners alike.
This package of reforms, crafted after consultations with key stakeholders including landlords, real estate agents, and tenants, aims to address some issues and help pave the way for a more equitable renting experience across the state.
It is important to note that tenants still do not have adequate standards for rentals and can still be evicted with no reason from their home.
The amendments, set to be implemented in stages from May 2024 to mid-2025, encompass seven key reforms that are a step forward in reshaping the landscape of tenancy laws in Western Australia.
First and foremost, the Act prohibits rent bidding, a practice that often puts tenants at a disadvantage by driving up rental prices through competitive bidding wars. This measure aims to promote transparency and affordability in the rental market, helping to ensure that tenants are not unfairly priced out of suitable accommodation.
Furthermore, tenants will now have protection against retaliatory action from landlords, safeguarding their rights to express concerns or request necessary repairs without fear of repercussion. This provision helps to foster a more respectful and cooperative relationship between landlords and tenants, based on mutual understanding and accountability.
The Act mandates that rent increases be limited to once per 12 months, providing tenants with greater financial security and peace of mind.
Tenants will have increased freedom to keep pets and make minor modifications to their rental homes, helping empower them to create a living environment that suits their needs and preferences.
Moreover, the introduction of Consumer Protection Commissioner determinations and the option for bond release applications to be made directly to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection offer tenants avenues for seeking resolution in case of disputes or issues with their tenancy agreements.
Overall, these reforms signify a step forward in ensuring that the rights and interests of tenants are duly protected.
Together we need to continue to work together to secure no grounds evictions, limit rent increases and ensure tenants have adequate standards for rentals.
For more information https://makerentingfairwa.org.au/
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