Residential Tenancy Agreement WA COVID-19: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a lot of changes in the world, and the rental market in Western Australia is no exception. As a tenant or a landlord, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations regarding residential tenancy agreements and COVID-19.
Here is a quick guide on everything you need to know about residential tenancy agreements and COVID-19 in Western Australia.
1. Rent Reductions
If you are a tenant experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for a rent reduction. To qualify, you must be able to demonstrate that your income has been impacted by COVID-19, and that you are struggling to pay your rent.
If your landlord agrees to a rent reduction, you will need to sign a new residential tenancy agreement WA COVID-19 addendum.
2. Rent Increases
During the COVID-19 pandemic, landlords are not allowed to increase the rent of a residential property, unless the rent increase was agreed to before March 30, 2020.
If you think that your landlord is trying to increase your rent during the pandemic, you can contact Consumer Protection WA for assistance.
3. Evictions
Landlords are not allowed to evict their tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic, unless they have a valid reason to do so. This means that a tenant cannot be evicted solely because they are unable to pay their rent due to COVID-19.
It is important to note that if a tenant is evicted due to arrears, the landlord must make reasonable efforts to negotiate a payment plan with the tenant before seeking a termination order.
4. Repairs and Maintenance
During the pandemic, landlords are still responsible for ensuring that their properties are in good repair and that any necessary maintenance is carried out promptly.
If you are a tenant and you need repairs or maintenance carried out on your rented property, it is important to communicate with your landlord or property manager as soon as possible.
5. Dispute Resolution
If you are a tenant or a landlord and you cannot come to an agreement regarding rent reductions, evictions, or any other issue related to your residential tenancy agreement during the pandemic, you can seek assistance from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety, or work with a mediator or dispute resolution service.
Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many challenges for tenants and landlords. However, by staying informed about the latest rules and regulations regarding residential tenancy agreements and COVID-19, you can protect your rights and ensure that you are being treated fairly.
Remember, if you are facing financial hardship due to COVID-19, there may be options available to help you, such as rent reductions. If you need assistance with your residential tenancy agreement during the pandemic, don`t hesitate to seek help from a qualified professional.