Landlord Guide Perth: What Good Property Management Looks Like

Good property management in Perth comes down to four disciplines: choosing reliable tenants, setting and reviewing rent from evidence, keeping on top of maintenance, and complying with WA tenancy law. The manager you choose affects your return over the years you own the property, so choose them as carefully as you chose the property.

What does a property manager do?

• advertises the property and runs inspections for applicants
• screens tenants and prepares the lease
• lodges the bond and completes the ingoing condition report
• collects rent and manages arrears
• arranges repairs and maintenance
• conducts routine inspections and reports to you
• handles rent reviews, renewals, notices and the end of the tenancy

How do you choose a good property manager?

Ask how they screen tenants, how many properties each manager handles, how they set rent, how they handle repairs and who you will deal with day to day. Compare fees on the same basis: management fee, leasing fee and the smaller charges. Ours are published in full on our property management page. If you already have a manager and want to move, see how to switch property managers.

How are tenants screened?

Thorough screening includes identity checks, contacting previous landlords or agents, confirming employment and income, and searching a national tenancy database. A personal conversation with the applicant adds what paperwork cannot. Choosing the right tenant is the single biggest protection for your property and income.

How is rent set and reviewed?

Rent should come from recently leased comparable homes. In WA, rent can only increase once every 12 months and rent bidding is banned (Consumer Protection WA). See our rental appraisal guide.

What WA laws do landlords need to follow?

The Residential Tenancies Act 1987 and the recent rent reforms govern leases, bonds, entry, repairs, pets and ending tenancies. Key rules include responding to pet and minor modification requests within 14 days, urgent repairs within 24 to 48 hours, and up to four routine inspections a year. Our guide to WA tenancy laws summarises them.

How do bonds work in WA?

A bond can be up to four weeks’ rent, unless the weekly rent is over $1,200, and a separate pet bond can be up to $350. The bond must be lodged with Bonds Administration within 14 days and is held there until the tenancy ends (Consumer Protection WA).

What should a landlord expect in reporting?

• monthly statements with every payment and expense itemised
• an annual summary for your accountant
• inspection reports with photographs
• prompt notice of anything needing your decision

Do you need landlord insurance?

Landlord insurance can cover building damage, loss of rent and liability, depending on the policy. Our landlord insurance guide explains what to check.

How does Boutique Realty Perth manage property?

Our property management is led by a dedicated Asset Growth Manager, because collecting rent is the minimum, not the goal. Each year we review the rent, the property’s condition and whether to hold, improve or sell. Request a rental appraisal or read about our property management service.

Frequently asked questions

How much do property managers charge in Perth?

Fees vary by agency. Our standard management fee is 8.8% of gross rent collected (inc GST) for unfurnished properties, with a leasing fee of two weeks’ rent + GST, and our full schedule is published.

How much bond can a landlord ask for in WA?

Up to four weeks’ rent, unless the rent is over $1,200 a week, plus a pet bond of up to $350.

How often can a property manager inspect a rental?

Up to four routine inspections a year in WA, with proper written notice.

Can I manage my own rental property?

Yes, but you must meet every WA tenancy law obligation yourself, including bonds, notices, repairs and inspections.