· Executive Properties
Western Australia's rental laws have changed in stages since 2024. If you lease a property, or plan to, these are the rules that most often affect owners. This is a summary, not legal advice, and each point links to Consumer Protection.
Rent increases once every 12 months.
Since 29 July 2024, rent can be increased no more than once every 12 months, with at least 60 days notice on the approved form. This applies to periodic and fixed-term agreements, with transitional rules for some leases signed before that date.
Pets.
Tenants can keep a pet in most cases, but must ask permission first. A landlord can refuse only on limited grounds, or with the approval of the Commissioner for Consumer Protection, and can set reasonable conditions. According to Consumer Protection, landlords have 14 days to respond, and a request is treated as approved if they do not respond in time. A pet bond of up to $350 can be required.
Minor modifications.
Tenants can make small changes, such as hanging pictures or installing flyscreens, in most cases with permission. Landlords can refuse in limited situations or set reasonable conditions, and tenants generally restore the property at the end of the tenancy.
Bonds.
The security bond is capped at four weeks rent where rent is $1,200 a week or less. Above that, the cap does not apply. Bonds are lodged with the Bond Administrator within 14 days. Since 28 March 2026, under the new bond release process, any party can start a bond release application.
Rent bidding and retaliatory action.
Encouraging tenants to offer more than the advertised rent is banned, and tenants can challenge action taken against them for exercising their rights.
What this means for owners.
Good management is now as much about process as it is about rent. Requests have deadlines, forms matter and the evidence you keep decides disputes. Our property management service handles this under WA law, with clear reporting to you.
Common questions
How often can rent be increased in WA?
No more than once every 12 months, with at least 60 days written notice on the approved form.
Can a landlord refuse a pet in WA?
Only on limited grounds, or with the approval of the Commissioner for Consumer Protection. Reasonable conditions can be set.
What is the maximum pet bond in WA?
Up to $350 for a residential tenancy.
General information only, current at the date of publishing. It is not legal or financial advice. Check the linked official sources or speak to a professional about your situation.