Unveiling the Future: Brace Yourself for Intense Residential Tenancy Act Changes in 2024

The proposed changes outlined in the Bill are significant and aim to enhance the residential tenancy laws in Western Australia. Here is a summary of the first phase of changes:

**Pet Ownership:** Tenants will now have the right to keep pets, with landlords having limited grounds for refusal. Conditions may be set by landlords, and the pet bond will be expanded to cover potential damages caused by pets.


**Minor Modifications:** Tenants will be allowed to make certain minor modifications to rental properties, such as installing flyscreens or water-saving shower heads. Landlords can only refuse under specific circumstances, and a prescribed list of modifications will be provided.


**Rent Increases:** Rent increases will be limited to once every 12 months.


**Bond Disposal:** The process for disposing of bonds will be streamlined, allowing both landlords and tenants to initiate the application process for bond release.


**Dispute Resolution:** Disputes related to bonds, pets, and minor modifications will be determined by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection rather than the Magistrates Court.


**Rent Bidding Prohibition:** Any person, including landlords, agents, and property managers, will be prohibited from encouraging rent bidding, ensuring fair rental practices.


**Tenant Relief:** Tenants can seek relief from the court if the landlord takes retaliatory action against them for enforcing their rights.


**Termination without Grounds:** Landlords will retain the ability to terminate tenancies without providing specific grounds.


For more detailed information, the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill 2023, which outlines the reforms and their operational details, is available on the WA Parliament website. Please note that changes to the Bill may occur during the parliamentary consideration.


As we move forward, the Bill is expected to be considered by Parliament in early 2024, with reforms anticipated to take effect gradually from around mid-2024. 


Looking ahead, Consumer Protection is actively working on the second phase of reforms, with recommendations expected to be presented to the Government in 2024. This phase will cover crucial topics such as information ,disclosure before lease signing standards for rental properties, maintenance and repairs, tenant responsibilities for wilful damage, and the regulation of boarding, lodging, and room-by-room rentals.


All information has been sourced from; www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumer-protection/residential-tenancies-act-review

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