The tenants of housing co-operatives and housing associations do not own the houses they live in, but rent them from the group. In some cases housing co-operative and housing association tenants may also be members of the group from which they are renting. It is important to know whether you are a member since different rules apply for member-tenants and non-member-tenants. As well, co-op members are expected to attend meetings of the co-operative and to take on various administrative responsibilities involved in running the group.
Some specific requirements apply to member-tenants of housing associations and co-operatives:
- you may need to comply with certain tenancy by-laws (eg: visitors, absences, rent changes) referred to in the tenancy agreement
- we recommend your tenancy agreement be in writing.
Member-tenants and non member-tenants of housing co-operatives and housing associations are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act 1995, but there are some sections of the Residential Tenancies Act where variations or exemptions exist for housing co-operatives and housing associations, such as:
- period of notice for rent increase for income determined rents
- the basis for calculating rent payable
- housing co-operatives and housing associations are not responsible for maintenance & repair of certain items (eg. air-conditioners, light fittings, room heaters, floor coverings)
- housing co-operatives and housing associations can withhold consent for assignment or sub-letting of property
- requirements for termination of tenancy in a co-operative differ.
It is possible to obtain further exemptions from provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act, by making an application to the Tribunal. If you wish to make such an application, contact us.
If you would like more information about joining a housing co-operative or housing association, see links.
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Information on copyright for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website is provided on behalf of South Australia Central http://www.sacentral.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=60
Disclaimer
Information on the disclaimer for the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs website is provided on behalf of South Australia Central http://www.sacentral.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=61
Privacy
The South Australian Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA) is committed to protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your personal information, consistent with the South Australian Government's Information Privacy Principles. If you would like to view the full privacy statement please visit: http://www.ocba.sa.gov.au/privacy.html
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