Ending a Tenancy by Mutual Agreement in WA: What You Need to Know

In Western Australia, a tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and a tenant. The agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the start and end date of the tenancy. When the end date of the tenancy approaches, landlords and tenants have several options to end the tenancy, one of which is ending the tenancy by mutual agreement.

Ending a tenancy by mutual agreement in WA means that the landlord and tenant have agreed to terminate the tenancy before the end date specified in the tenancy agreement. Both parties must agree to the early termination, and the agreement should be in writing. Here’s what you need to know about ending a tenancy by mutual agreement in WA.

Notice Requirements

According to the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA), landlords and tenants must give each other written notice of their intention to terminate the tenancy by mutual agreement. The notice must be signed by both parties and include the date on which the tenancy will end. The notice period must be at least 21 days before the agreed termination date.

Bond Refund

If the tenant has paid a bond at the start of the tenancy, the bond must be refunded to the tenant when the tenancy ends. The landlord must inspect the property and ensure that it is in the same condition as when the tenancy began, taking into account any fair wear and tear. If the property is not in the same condition, the landlord may deduct the cost of any repairs or cleaning from the bond.

Rent and Utilities

The tenant is responsible for paying rent and utilities up until the agreed termination date. The tenant should also provide a forwarding address to the landlord so that any outstanding bills can be forwarded to them.

Vacating the Property

Once the tenancy has ended by mutual agreement, the tenant must vacate the property by the agreed termination date. The tenant should ensure that the property is cleaned and all personal belongings are removed. The landlord may inspect the property after the tenant has vacated to ensure that it is in good condition.

Ending a tenancy by mutual agreement can be a convenient option for both landlords and tenants. However, it’s important to follow the correct procedures and give notice in writing to ensure that the termination is legally valid. If you’re unsure about the process, seek advice from a qualified professional.