A six-month moratorium on residential tenancy evictions has now become law.
The laws implement the decision of the National Cabinet and are designed to prevent tenants from having to move out or being made homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Other elements of the laws include:
- a ban on rent increases during the moratorium period
- fixed-term tenancies automatically converting to periodical tenancies if they expire during the period, unless another fixed-term agreement is entered into
- landlords will not have to carry out non-urgent repairs if they are experiencing financial hardship or are not able to access the premises due to restrictions on movement
- tenants who experience COVID-19 related financial hardship and end a fixed-term tenancy prior to its end date will not incur break lease fees, but will still be liable for damage and rent arrears.
For more information see the Eviction moratorium and code of conduct to protect WA businesses media statement or Consumer Protection advice for residential tenancies – COVID-19 response.
