Here’s what the Stage Two of WA’s Rent Reforms mean for you

There was some big news for renters and landlords in Western Australia last month, with stage two of the state’s rent reforms rolling out from July 29.

As a result there are some significant changes you need to know about – from fewer rent increases to more freedom for renters to make their place feel like home, these updates are designed to make renting in WA a little easier for everyone.

Check out a brief rundown below with thanks to Consumer Protection, and get all the info you need here.

Personalising your space

Ever wanted to make your rental feel more like home? Well, now you can! Under the new rules, tenants can make minor modifications to their rental properties, provided they get their landlord’s permission first.

We’re talking about small changes like hanging pictures, painting a wall, or even installing child safety locks or a water-saving shower head. Of course, there are a few exceptions where landlords can say no, like if a local council or strata by-law forbids it, or if it would disturb asbestos or impact a heritage listing.

If landlords think the change would be too costly to undo, they can take their case to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection.

At the end of your lease, you’ll need to put things back to how they were unless your landlord’s happy for you to leave the changes as is.

Pets are (mostly) welcome

Good news for pet lovers! The new reforms mean that pets are generally allowed in rentals. Just like with modifications, you’ll need to get your landlord’s permission, but they can only say no if there’s a legal reason or if they can convince the Commissioner that there’s a good reason, like the property not having a fence.

Landlords can also set reasonable conditions — like requiring fumigation when you move out, but more specific conditions (like keeping your cat in an outdoor enclosure) might need the Commissioner’s tick of approval.

Rent increases shift to once a year

Starting from July 29, rent increases will only be allowed once every 12 months, down from the previous six months. This change kicks in straight away for periodic leases and will apply to fixed-term leases once the current term ends.

A new way to resolve disputes

No one likes the idea of going to court, so the new Commissioner Determination process is a win for everyone. Instead of heading to court for simple disputes, renters, landlords, and agents can now make their case online.

The Commissioner for Consumer Protection will make a decision, and everyone will get a written explanation of the ruling. This new process is set to make resolving rental disputes quicker, easier, and far less stressful.

From early 2025, the Commissioner Determination process will also cover bond release disputes.

For more details on these reforms, check out the Consumer Protection website at demirs.wa.gov.au/warentreforms or give them a call on 1300 30 40 54.

Image Credit: Troy Mutton