Rental laws in the ACT
Laws and rights of tenants and landlords for rental properties in the ACT.
Read about the changes to residential tenancy laws.
The law for renting in the ACT is the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
This law applies when a property, or a room in a property is rented under a tenancy agreement (lease) from:
- a private landlord, which may be through a real estate agent
- the government, such as Housing ACT
- a community housing provider.
The law aims to ensure people renting in the ACT have stable and secure housing and are protected from unfair practices. Both landlords and tenants have rights and responsibilities under the law.
There may be penalties for not following the law or consequences from not complying with the terms of a tenancy agreement.
Understanding rental laws in the ACT
The Renting Book is a guide to help tenants understand rental law in the ACT.
By law, before a tenancy starts, landlords must either:
- give a copy of the Renting Book to tenants
- tell tenants where to find the Renting Book.
Read the Renting Book [PDF 1.5 MB] for more detailed information on renting in the ACT.
Rental laws by stages
Help for rental law disputes
The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) is an independent body that can help resolve disputes between both:
- tenants and landlord
- co-tenants.
Find out how to raise a dispute with ACAT.
Legal support services
The following services give free legal advice and support for tenancy matters:
- Legal Aid ACT Tenancy Advice Service: Gives free legal advice, support and education to help tenants and occupants in the ACT.
- Canberra Community Law: Gives free legal advice for tenants with Housing ACT or an ACT community housing provider.