From today with the first of the tenancy reforms, the state government has introduced a ban on rent bidding with a potential penalty of up to $10 thousand dollars for individuals.

Rent bidding previously allowed people to offer higher amounts than other applicants, with the enticement from landlords or agents that it would put them ahead.

Consumer Protection Commissioner Trish Blake told Oliver Peterson on Perth Live there is nothing stopping tenants from still voluntarily offering more but landlords cannot do anything to coerce them.

“In the last 12 to 18 months we are hearing multiple occasions where tenants are being told if you want to boost your chances you need to offer more, and that has really significantly contributed to this ramping up of rent prices in the city,” Ms Blake said.

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