Private Lease Agreement WA – Essential Steps for a Secure Tenancy

Learn how to protect yourself as a landlord in Western Australia with a solid private lease agreement. Follow these practical steps to ensure your rights are safeguarded throughout the tenancy process.

Before Approving a Tenant

• Conduct a Thorough Screening: Verify the tenant’s background by contacting all provided references—ask for details from their current employer, previous landlord, and personal connections. This comprehensive check is vital to ensure you select a reliable tenant.

At the Time of Signing the Lease Agreement

• Sign a Residential Tenancy Agreement: Meet with the tenant to review and sign the Residential Tenancy Agreement form. Provide your tenant with a copy of Form 1AC to ensure all parties fully understand their obligations.

• Complete a Property Condition Report: Within 7 days of the tenancy start date, complete a Property Condition Report. Retain one copy for your records and provide two copies to the tenant. Conducting the report together can help resolve potential disputes over property condition later.

• Collect and Lodge the Bond: Request a bond equivalent to 4 weeks’ rent. Issue a receipt upon receiving the bond and ensure the funds are lodged with the Bond Administrator within 14 days using the appropriate form. This bond protects you in cases where the tenant causes damage, breaks the lease, or stops paying rent.

During the Tenancy

• Conduct Regular Inspections: Carry out routine property inspections up to four times a year. Always provide your tenant with proper written notice (using the relevant notice form) prior to any inspection.

• Maintain Detailed Documentation: Keep a record of all communications and transactions, including letters, receipts, and photographs of any damage. Having comprehensive records on-hand can be invaluable if any disputes arise during or after the tenancy.

Additional Recommendations

• Tenant Background Checks: Consider completing National Tenancy Database or TICA blacklist checks to ensure potential tenants have a reliable rental history. Additionally, check criminal court attendance records and consider ordering detailed police background checks.

• Landlord Insurance: Invest in comprehensive landlord insurance to protect against theft, malicious damage, or loss of rent if a tenant defaults. A variety of providers exist—take the time to compare policies and choose the one that best fits your needs.

• Educational Resources: Review guides such as the Lessor’s Guide produced by the Department of Commerce and explore the range of landlord guides and videos offered by government departments. These resources provide further insights that can help you manage your property confidently.

By following these steps, you can create a robust private lease agreement in Western Australia that minimizes risk and ensures a smooth rental process. Stay proactive and informed, and protect your valuable asset with the right measures in place.