The Commissioner for Consumer Protection is urging tenants and landlords to be aware of their rights and responsibilities should a rental property fall victim to one of Western Australia’s many and varied natural disasters.
Lanie Chopping said that when a rental home was damaged in disasters, the landlord was legally responsible for necessary repairs and maintenance.
“Urgent repairs required to essential services should be initiated within 24 hours, or within 48 hours for issues that could cause someone harm or undue hardship, or cause further damage,” Ms Chopping said.
“When services to an entire area have been impaired — such as when power poles burn down or the water supply becomes compromised — it can take the authorities some time to resolve the issues.”
In these cases the landlord could provide a generator, potable water or a rent rebate for the duration. Consumer Protection could assist the parties to reach a mutual agreement.
“If the house has been destroyed or is unfit to live in, the most practical approach is for the tenant or landlord to give a notice of intention to immediately end the lease,” Ms Chopping said.
“Tenants can give two days’ notice, while the landlord is required to give seven days.”
She said when it came to debris, emergency services might already have a cleaning program in place. If there was no cleaning program, the landlord was responsible.
“This includes clearing debris from the external part of the property and the garden area,” Ms Chopping said.
“It’s also smart to be wary of travelling conmen or unlicensed traders who can target areas after a disaster to go door-to-door, offering cheap deals.”
Further information on renting during a disaster can be accessed on the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety at this PS News link.
