We understand the importance of comfortable and dignified living, especially as we age. A home is not just a shelter but a sanctuary, a place to relax and feel at ease.

However, a rental property has recently sparked a wave of disgust and outrage among Australians. The studio apartment, which costs $350 weekly, has been criticised for failing to meet the most basic standards of hygiene and privacy.

The property’s condition and design have left many questioning whether it’s acceptable for renters to endure such poor living standards in an area that offers modern conveniences and comfort.


Building inspector Russell McCarthy didn't mince words when he spoke about the studio apartment.

He said he could 'tear it apart limb for limb' due to its blatant disregard for the National Construction Codes.

These codes ensure that properties provide adequate privacy, ventilation, and means to expel foul air.


McCarthy's assessment was clear: this apartment failed on all counts.

The online listing for this apartment quickly attracted heavy criticism, and rightfully so.

Celsius Property Group, the listing agency based in East Victoria Park, has since confirmed that the property has been withdrawn from the rental market.


It's understood that the owners are now undertaking renovations to bring the property up to code.

McCarthy expressed his bewilderment, noting that the apartment appeared modern and new, which would typically mean it should comply with current regulations.

'It insults the general consumer,' he said.

'When I'm looking at this property, it looks relatively modern. It looks relatively new, and therefore, it would have to comply with modern regulations; it's not a heritage system, and the council wouldn't accept that [either].'

The reaction on social media was swift and scathing. Some Australians joked about the convenience of watching your microwave meal cook while seated on the toilet.

In contrast, others lamented the grim state of the rental market, comparing the apartment to a 'prison cell.'


This comparison isn't far-fetched, considering another similarly dismal Sydney rental that made headlines in June 2023.

McCarthy advised anyone encountering such a property to report it immediately to the local council.

This is not just a matter of poor taste or inconvenience; it's a legal issue that affects residents' well-being.

The broader context of this incident is the state of the construction industry in Western Australia, which McCarthy has previously described as a 'Wild West.'

The lack of an independent regulator has resulted in homeowners frequently dealing with subpar construction work.

Those employed by builders often carry out compliance checks, and renovations require no checks at all, leading to widespread corner-cutting.


In his five years of inspections, McCarthy has yet to find a new build utterly free of defects.

This is a sobering reminder of the vigilance required when searching for a rental property, especially for seniors who deserve peace of mind in their living arrangements.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we urge our members to thoroughly inspect potential homes and not hesitate to raise concerns with local authorities if something seems amiss.

Your comfort, safety, and dignity should never be compromised, especially in your home.
Have you encountered any rental properties that have left you shocked or disappointed? Please share your experiences with us in the comments below. Your stories can help raise awareness and protect others from similar situations.