Fast facts

• Rent cannot be increased during a fixed term agreement unless it is specifically stated.
• Even if rent increases are allowed during the agreement, 2 months notice in writing must be given or 4 weeks in rooming accommodation agreements.
• Rent can be increased in a periodic agreement by giving 2 months notice in writing (4 weeks in rooming accommodation).
• For rent to be increased, it must be at least 6 months since the last increase.
• Rent can be increased at the end of a fixed term agreement. For example, at the end of a 12 month agreement the rent can be increased for the next 12 month period.
• If a tenant feels the increase is excessive, they can dispute this once the new agreement is signed using the RTA dispute resolution service.
• If rent is increased, the bond may need to be increased as well and the additional bond lodged with the RTA.

Rent decreases

Rent may be decreased because:

• there is a drop in the standard of the property, room or service
• there is a decrease in services provided, e.g. a stove is not working

In rooming accommodation:

• the resident is not receiving a personal care service because they are away
• the resident is not receiving a food service because they have been away for more than two weeks