- Tenants report receiving poorly maintained, unclean properties in need of repairs
- Complaints over mould, pests, faulty aircon, even garage passed off as 2brm unit
- Renters urged to speak up and report issues to Consumer Protection
Consumer Protection is receiving a rising number of complaints from tenants about rental properties being handed over to them in a substandard condition.
Landlords and property managers may be breaching WA’s tenancy laws by failing to ensure rental properties are properly cleaned, maintained or repaired before new tenants move in.
Common complaints include issues such as plumbing, mould, leaking roofs, broken air-conditioning units and other appliances, and pest infestations.
More serious concerns have involved landlords misrepresenting non-habitable structures – such as sheds and garages – as suitable living spaces. In one case, a garage was reportedly advertised as a two-bedroom unit despite being deemed non-habitable by the local government authority (LGA).
In the past 12 months, Consumer Protection has received 77 complaints about substandard rental properties, compared to 21 complaints in the previous 12-month period.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake was concerned that some landlords and property managers could be exploiting the low rental vacancy rate to take advantage of tenants.
“Some landlords are neglecting their duty to deliver clean, well-maintained and habitable homes – leaving tenants to deal with mould, damage and overdue repairs from day one,” Ms Blake said.
“It’s deeply concerning to hear of unfit and non-compliant structures, like sheds or garages, being advertised and leased as homes. Landlords have a legal duty to ensure properties are suitable and safe for habitation, and property managers must verify all material facts before listing.
“Importantly, tenants can now take action against these issues without fear of retribution. Since May 2024, it’s an offence for landlords to take retaliatory action – such as rent increases, breach notices, or lease terminations – when a tenant requests essential work. The updated Residential Tenancies Act empowers tenants to challenge such conduct in the Magistrates Court.
“If repair or maintenance issues have reduced the facilities available in the rental, tenants may also be entitled to ask the court for a rent reduction.
“I also want to remind all agents and landlords that it is unlawful to attempt to limit your responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act through contract terms or any advertising.
“Tenants deserve transparency and access to housing that meets minimum standards. When these standards fall short, we encourage them to speak up and exercise their rights.”
Tenants concerned about maintenance or repair issues, or whether their home is fit for habitation, can lodge a complaint on the Consumer Protection website, email consumer@lgirs.wa.gov.au or call 1300 30 40 54.
Media Contact: cpmedia@lgirs.wa.gov.au