The Tasmanian Government is making homes safer for renters through changes to the Residential Tenancy Act 1997, which was re-introduced into the House of Assembly today.
Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, said the Bill amends the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 to make it easier for tenants to affix an item of furniture to the premises to reduce the risk of injury or death to a person from the movement of that furniture.
"Where affixing the furniture will not cause permanent damage, no consent from the owner is needed. If permanent damage will result, the tenant will need to seek the consent of the owner first," Minister Barnett said.
"The owner must respond to the request within 14 days and consent must not be unreasonably refused. If consent is refused and the tenant believes the refusal is unreasonable, the tenant can apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner for an order to authorise the making of the safety modification.
"This is an example of how our Government is getting on with the job and is delivering on the things that matter for Tasmanians."
The Residential Tenancy Act continues to ensure a tenant has an obligation to return the property to the condition it was in at the beginning of the tenancy, other than reasonable wear and tear.
"We are striking the right balance between improving safety for tenants and protecting owners," Minister Barnett said.
"Our Government considers that the reforms contained in the Bill maintain a balance between the rights and safety of the tenants with the interests of the owner."
Any damage as a result of affixing furniture will need to be rectified by the tenant at the end of the tenancy or otherwise the owner can make a claim against the bond.
