Rent Increases in WA: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

A clear guide to how rent increases work under Western Australian tenancy laws

At D Residential Group, our team of Perth property managers specialise in boutique residential property management, supporting landlords and tenants with clear advice, strong compliance and a practical understanding of Western Australian tenancy legislation.

Rent increases are one of the most common and often misunderstood aspects of residential property management in Western Australia. Whether you’re a landlord planning ahead or a tenant wanting clarity, understanding how rent increases work under WA legislation is essential.

In recent years, we’ve seen increased attention around rental pricing, notice periods, and what is considered reasonable. Clear information helps avoid confusion, disputes, and unnecessary stress on both sides.

Below is a practical overview of how rent increases work in Western Australia, what is required by law, and what should be considered before any increase is applied.

How Often Can Rent Be Increased in WA?

In Western Australia, rent can only be increased once every 12 months for a residential tenancy.

This applies regardless of whether:

The tenant is on a fixed-term lease
The tenancy is periodic
Market conditions have changed significantly

If the rent has been increased within the last 12 months, it cannot be increased again until that 12-month period has passed.

This rule is designed to provide tenants with stability while ensuring landlords can still review rent annually in line with the market.

The 60-Day Notice Requirement

A key requirement under WA legislation is that tenants must be given at least 60 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.

This notice must:

Be provided in writing
Use the prescribed Form 10 – Notice to Tenant of Rent Increase
Clearly state the new rent amount and the date it will commence

Verbal notice, emails without the correct form, or informal communication does not meet legislative requirements.

If the correct notice is not issued, or the notice period is incorrect, the rent increase may be invalid and unenforceable.

How Much Can Rent Be Increased?

Unlike some other states, there is no fixed cap on rent increases in Western Australia. However, this does not mean rent can be increased arbitrarily.

Any increase must be:

Reasonable
In line with current market conditions
Justifiable if questioned

Factors typically considered when assessing whether an increase is reasonable include:

Comparable rental properties in the same area
The condition, size, and features of the property
Changes in market demand
Improvements or upgrades to the property

Can Tenants Challenge a Rent Increase?

Yes — tenants in WA can apply to the Magistrates Court if they believe a proposed rent increase is excessive.

The court may consider:

Market evidence for similar properties
The timing and size of the increase
The condition and location of the property

This is why it’s important that rent increases are well-considered, supported by data, and communicated clearly.

A rent increase that reflects genuine market movement is far more likely to withstand scrutiny than one that is applied without context or justification.

Timing Matters

Another important consideration is timing.

Rent increases cannot take effect immediately, even at lease renewal, unless:

The 12-month rule has been satisfied, and
The full 60 days’ notice has been given correctly

This means rent reviews should be planned well in advance, particularly for fixed-term leases, to ensure compliance and avoid delays.

The Importance of Getting it Right

Rent increases are not just about numbers, they’re about process, compliance, and communication.

When handled correctly, they:

Reflect fair market value
Support long-term investment performance
Maintain professional landlord-tenant relationships

When handled poorly, they can lead to disputes, delays, and unnecessary frustration.

For landlords, understanding the legal framework is essential. For tenants, knowing your rights provides clarity and confidence.

What to Keep in Mind

In Western Australia, rent increases are governed by clear rules:

They can only occur once every 12 months
At least 60 days’ written notice is required
The prescribed Form 10 must be used
Increases must be reasonable and market-based

Staying informed about rent increase requirements helps ensure the process is handled correctly, fairly, and in line with Western Australian legislation.

At D Residential Group, we take a considered and compliant approach to residential property management, supporting clear communication and informed decision-making at every stage.

Discover the difference D Residential Group can make through informed Perth property management.