FAQs for Tenants

Here’s a comprehensive set of FAQs for renters in NSW that covers common concerns:

FAQs for Renters in NSW

Q: How much bond can a landlord ask for?
A: In NSW, the bond can be up to four weeks’ rent for most properties. This is lodged with the NSW Rental Bond Board and is refundable at the end of the tenancy, minus any legitimate deductions for damage or unpaid rent.

Q: What is a holding deposit?
A: A holding deposit is usually one week’s rent, paid to secure the property while the lease is prepared. It’s refundable if the tenancy does not proceed.

Q: Do I get a cooling-off period after signing the lease?
A: Yes, in NSW tenants generally have a 5-day cooling-off period for standard residential leases (excluding short-term or vacation rentals). During this time, you can cancel the lease without penalty.

Q: Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?
A: Tenants must take reasonable care of the property and report any damage or maintenance issues promptly. Landlords are responsible for major repairs, structural issues, and keeping essential services (like plumbing, electricity, and gas) in working order.

Q: Can I have pets?
A: In most cases, tenants need the landlord’s written consent to keep pets. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse consent if you apply properly. Some leases have specific clauses about pet types or sizes.

Q: Can the landlord increase rent during my lease?
A: For fixed-term leases, rent cannot increase unless the lease specifically allows it. For periodic leases, landlords must provide at least 60 days’ notice of a rent increase, and it must be fair and in line with market rates.

Q: What notice do I need to give to end my tenancy?
A: For periodic leases, tenants must give 21 days’ notice. For fixed-term leases, you generally must wait until the lease expires unless the landlord agrees to an early termination.

Q: Can the landlord enter my property?
A: Landlords or agents can enter the property for inspections, repairs, or emergencies, but must provide at least 7 days’ written notice for routine inspections and reasonable notice for other situations.

Q: How do I get my bond back?
A: Complete a final inspection with the landlord or agent and ensure the property is cleaned and any agreed repairs are done. Lodge a bond claim with the NSW Rental Bond Board to have it returned.

Q: What if I have issues with my landlord or agent?
A: If disputes arise, tenants can contact NSW Fair Trading for guidance or use the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to resolve disputes legally.

Q: Do I need to book lifts or loading docks for moving in?
A: If moving into an apartment building, yes. Book lifts and loading docks in advance—these shared facilities often require scheduling, and leaving it to the last minute can cause delays or conflicts.

Q: Can I sublet the property?
A: You must have written consent from the landlord to sublet. Unauthorized subletting can be a breach of your lease and may result in termination.

If you like, I can also create a shorter “top 10 renter FAQs” version that’s easy to print or share with tenants. This is often more user-friendly for first-time renters.

Here’s an extended list of additional FAQs for renters in NSW, covering more practical scenarios:

Q: How is rent usually paid?
A: Rent is typically paid weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, as stated in your lease. Most tenants pay via bank transfer, BPAY, or direct debit. Always keep proof of payment.

Q: Can I make changes to the property?
A: Tenants must get written permission from the landlord before making alterations, such as painting, installing shelves, or changing fixtures. Unauthorized changes may result in deductions from your bond.

Q: Who pays for utilities?
A: Tenants usually pay for electricity, gas, water (if separately metered), and internet unless the lease states otherwise. Check your lease to confirm what is included.

Q: What happens if the property has pests?
A: Landlords are responsible for pest infestations that are not caused by the tenant. Tenants should report issues promptly. Routine pest prevention may sometimes be the tenant’s responsibility, depending on the lease.

Q: Can the landlord end the lease early?
A: Landlords can only end a lease early under specific conditions, such as non-payment of rent, serious breaches, or if the property is being sold with vacant possession. Proper notice and legal procedures must be followed.

Q: What are my rights if repairs are not done?
A: If urgent repairs are not completed, tenants can request intervention from NSW Fair Trading. For urgent issues like broken gas, electricity, or water supply, you may be able to arrange the repair and have the landlord reimburse you, but only under proper legal guidance.

Q: Can I have guests stay over?
A: Tenants can generally have guests, but long-term or permanent residents may require landlord approval. Check your lease for any restrictions.

Q: What is a periodic lease vs a fixed-term lease?
A: A fixed-term lease runs for a set period (e.g., 6 or 12 months) with terms locked in. A periodic lease continues on a rolling basis after a fixed term ends, with more flexibility but also notice requirements for ending the tenancy.

Q: How are disputes over the bond handled?
A: If there’s a disagreement over bond deductions, tenants and landlords can apply to NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to resolve it. Always keep the condition report and photos as evidence.

Q: Are there rules about smoke alarms?
A: Yes, landlords must provide and maintain working smoke alarms. Tenants are responsible for reporting faults and replacing batteries if required.

Q: Can I get my rent reduced if the property is damaged?
A: Rent reductions may be requested if the property becomes partially uninhabitable due to damage or repairs. Tenants should notify the landlord immediately and seek resolution through agreement or NCAT if needed.

Q: What should I do if I lose keys or lock myself out?
A: Notify the landlord or agent immediately. Tenants may be responsible for the cost of replacement keys or locks unless the loss is due to landlord negligence.

Q: Can I request modifications for accessibility?
A: Tenants with disabilities can request reasonable modifications for accessibility. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse, but approvals should be documented in writing.

If you want, I can combine all these into a full “Ultimate Renter FAQ Guide”, organized by categories like payments, repairs, moving in/out, and rights, so it’s easy for tenants to navigate. Do you want me to do that?