Are sharers covered by tenancy acts?

Aaron Wischusen

Thursday May 28 2015

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A recent survey of share accommodation users has found over half of respondents say they have little or no knowledge of tenancy laws.

Alarmingly, one-third of those who said they knew little or had never read the laws were landlords or lease holders renting out the rooms in their homes.

General Manager of Flatmates.com.au, Thomas Clement said they were concerned with the lack of knowledge amongst renters and were endeavouring to educate their community through helpful legal guides.

“Tenancy law is ambiguous and difficult to navigate, so we weren’t that surprised half of share accommodation users hadn’t looked into it,” said Clement.

“Unfortunately though, many rental disputes stem from people not knowing or sometimes assuming what their rights or obligations are.”

Those aged 18-22 were the least informed with 62% saying they knew little or nothing about the laws.

“Sharers under the age of 22 are most likely in their first share home or rental property and would have never had a reason to look at tenancy laws.” said Clement.

Clement said different state regulations and classifications of tenants made things difficult and confusing for those willing to research.

“The subtleties of a persons situation can make a big difference to how the law applies to them.”

“A large number of people currently living in share accommodation would only be covered under common law, as a result of verbal or non binding agreements. This means they are not protected by state tenancy acts which deal with matters such as bonds, eviction, rent and maintenance.”

“Tenants and landlords in share accommodation can ensure they are protected under the tenancy act by simply signing the standard residential tenancy agreement for their state or territory.”

Flatmates.com.au have compiled a series of free, public guides to help educate their community and others in share accommodation about the laws that apply.

“We wanted to compile easy to read and accessible guides that explain the state specific laws for things like holding deposits, bonds, paying rent and agreements.”

The guides are freely available at info.flatmates.com.au.

ENDS//

author

Aaron Wischusen

aaron@flatmates.com.au

@flatmates

Public Relations and Community Manager