Who is responsible in a tenancy?

The following information provides a quick reference to who is responsible for what in a residential tenancy in WA. It is not a complete list and some responsibilities will depend on particular circumstances and the agreed details of the tenancy agreement.

Generally, as a tenant you are responsible for;

1. The premises being kept clean and tidy and handing it back in a similar condition to which it was in at the start of the agreement.

2. Basic household maintenance – replacing light globes, replacing smoke alarm batteries where practical, and vacuuming.

3. General garden maintenance (such as mowing, weeding, light pruning).

4. Day-to-day maintenance of any swimming pool or spa.

5. Carpet stains and burns, breakages etc.

6. Loss or damage to your personal property unless caused by the lessor/property manager or a problem with the premises.

7. Payment of water used, unless agreed otherwise.

8. Payment for electricity and gas used.

9. Pest infestations such as fleas caused by your pets. Prevention of pests by proper storage of food, and by using sprays and baits.

10. Putting bins out and rubbish removal.

11. Replacing lost keys.

Generally, the lessor/property manager is responsible for:

1. The premises being provided in a habitable and reasonable state of cleanliness, function and repair and complies with building, health and safety laws (such as for smoke alarms and pool fencing).

2. Major repairs like plumbing, maintenance of contents provided such as a refrigerator, washing machine, or smoke alarms.

3. Major garden maintenance (such as tree lopping, maintenance of fire breaks). Provision and maintenance of sprinklers etc.

4. Ensuring any swimming pool or spa meets mandatory safety standards and is clean and chemically balanced at the start of the tenancy. Provision of maintenance equipment (such as vacuums, scoops).

5. Costs arising from fair wear and tear (such as carpet wear, paint flaking).

6. Repair of damage to the property caused by a third party or events outside your control (such as break-ins, traffic accidents).

7. Annual water rates.

8. Costs being allocated fairly for power charges in common areas of a strata complex such as a shared laundry or outside lights.

9. Pest and vermin control such as rats, mice, termites.

10. Payment of local council rates.

11. Minimum security measures.

For more information or to chat with a Licensed real estate agent in Perth,

contact Kate Webb, Owner and Director of Morgan Webb Real Estate Pty Ltd, kate@morganwebb.com.au or 0408 738 755.

Source: Renting a home in Western Australia - a tenant’s guide