What are your rights and responsibilities as a tenant

As a West Aussie tenant, you are reasonably expected to share some of the responsibility with the property owner for ensuring that your tenancy runs smoothly.

The managing agent looking after the property for the owner will help facilitate these mutual responsibilities, but it's important that you have a solid understanding of where you stand throughout the duration of your lease and that you maintain good communication with the property manager.

The written lease agreement

An official written lease agreement is the best way to ensure you both clearly understand your rights and responsibilities when entering into a tenancy.

Real estate agents who are REIWA members have access to a standard residential property lease form and additional terms that clarify responsibilities which comply fully with WA tenancy laws.

Your written lease clearly outlines your rights and responsibilities and lessens the chances of a dispute with the owner. We advise you to read the lease carefully before signing and keep a copy of the paperwork handy.

Rights and responsibilities

You have a number of rights and responsibilities to adhere to throughout the duration of your tenancy when renting in WA.

Your rights include:

• A copy of the lease and information for tenants.
• Provision of clean premises at the start of the lease.
• Bond money safely deposited with the State Government's Bond Administrator.
• A condition report for the premise given to the tenant before occupancy noting any damage. This must be returned within seven days of the start of the lease with any additional damage added to the report.
• Receipts are required for rental payments unless the rent is paid directly into a bank account.
• Tenants to be given seven to 14 days notice of an inspection and 72 hours notice of access required for any repairs, unless this is urgent.
• Tenants can expect repairs to be undertaken within reasonable time. The owner must see to all repairs, but the tenant pays if the damage is their fault.
• 60 days notice should be given for a rent increase.

Your responsibilities include:

• Looking after the property and not using it for illegal activity.
• Ensuring rent is paid on time for the duration of the lease agreement.
• Obtaining the owner's written permission if someone else moves in and that extra person exceeds the number of residents on the lease agreement.
• Reporting all necessary repairs to your property manager.
• Requesting written permission to make any alterations
• Not disrupting the neighbours.
• Ensuring the premises is in the same condition you found it when you leave.
• Providing 21 days notice to terminate an expired lease that has reverted to a periodic tenancy.

If you have questions about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant throughout your lease, be sure to speak with your REIWA property manager.