As spring approaches, many existing and prospective tenants will be thinking of finding a new place to rent, hoping to settle in before Christmas or at least for the New Year.
REIWA data shows the Perth rental vacancy rate easing towards around 3 per cent at the end of the June quarter, while in this same period median rents in Perth have grown to $320 per week for units and $350 per week houses.
Whether you are the owner or tenant of a property, a written agreement around the lease is highly recommended. From a tenant's perspective, a written lease clearly outlines your rights and responsibilities and lessens the chances of dispute with the owner. Tenants should read a lease carefully and keep the signed paperwork handy.
Real estate agents who are REIWA members have access to a standard residential property lease which complies fully with WA tenancy laws. These laws provide the following rights for tenants: - A copy of the lease.
- Clean premises at the start of the lease.
- Ensuring the bond is deposited in a trust account.
- A condition report on the premises to be given to the tenant noting any damage. This must be returned within seven days of the start of the lease with any additional damage you have found included on the report.
- Receipts are required for rental payments unless the rent is paid directly into an account.
- Tenants to be given 7 to 14 days notice of an inspection and 72 hours notice of access required for any repairs, unless urgent.
- Tenants can expect repairs to be undertaken within reasonable time. The owner must see to all repairs, but the tenant pays if it's their fault.
- 60 days notice should be given for any rent increase.
Tenants also have obligations covered by law. These include: - Looking after the property and not using it for illegal activity.
- Paying rent on time.
- The owner's written permission is required if someone else moves in.
- All necessary repairs must be reported and alterations to the premises require written permission.
- Not disrupting the neighbours.
- Ensuring the premises is in the same condition as you found it when you leave.
- Tenants should give 21 days notice to terminate an expired lease that has reverted to a periodic tenancy.
The Department of Consumer Protection website has current information for both landowners and tenants, as well as free brochures. These are very helpful, but REIWA still encourages the use of a property manager for both owners and tenants to minimize the fuss and to make renting easy.
www.docep.wa.gov.au
|
