From rent hikes to ending a lease and even keeping a pet, rental rules in NSW have undergone some significant changes. Here’s how to know the advice you’re getting is accurate.
If you’ve been following the news, you would have seen a series of recent changes to the state’s rental laws.
But if you’re asking a friend, scrolling through social media, or relying on outdated information, you could be getting it wrong.
Renters deserve to feel like their rental home is safe and secure - and a longterm solution. The rental reforms aim to do just that. Picture: Getty
The rental landscape has shifted, thanks to a series of reforms introduced by the NSW Government.
And for tenants, that means stronger protections and a much better idea of where you stand.
But only if you’re getting your information from the right source.
What’s changed
Most of the changes have been rolled out in stages.
For example, from 31 October 2024, rent increases are limited to once per year for all lease types, and extra fees at the start of a lease (like background checks or tenancy agreement preparation) are banned for all rental applicants.
From 19 May 2025, landlords must provide a valid reason to end a tenancy, pet requests can only be refused on limited grounds, and tenants must be offered the option to pay rent via bank transfer.
From 20 June 2025, simplified requirements apply for the documentation landlords must provide if ending a lease for renovations or repairs.
And from 1 July 2025, NSW Fair Trading is collecting data on tenancy terminations through Rental Bonds Online.
Many changes are already being rolled out in NSW to better protect renters. Make sure you understand how they could affect you. Picture: Getty
That’s a lot to take in, especially if you’re new to renting, or navigating it for the first time in the state.
Where to find the facts
NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones says one of the biggest traps renters fall into is acting on outdated or anecdotal advice.
“Relying on tips from friends or social media can lead renters to agree to things they don’t have to do or miss out on protections they’re entitled to,” she says.
Think being told your lease can be ended for no reason (no longer legal).
“Some renters agree to fees that they have been unlawfully charged for things like getting a paper invoice. Others believe they can’t ask for repairs if they’re behind on rent, which is not true,” Trina says.
Common myths
There’s plenty of misunderstandings around your rights as a tenant, says Trina.
One of the biggest common myths is that landlords can raise the rent as often as they like. That’s not true. As of 31 October 2024, rent increases are limited to once a year for all lease types.
Another is that tenants must pay for professional carpet cleaning at the end of your lease. This is also not true.
You only need to return the property in a similar condition to when you moved in, and special conditions like professional carpet cleaning are banned, unless it is a reasonable condition for keeping a pet inside the house.
New laws to make it easier for renters to keep pets have started. Picture: Getty
Gone also are the days your landlord can kick you out without explanation. As of 19 May 2025, all lease terminations require a valid reason, and landlords may need to provide documentation.
Got a furry friend? Under the new laws, landlords now have 21 days to respond to a pet request. If they don’t, it’s automatically approved. And there are only a handful of reasons a landlord can say no, like if the landlord lives in the rental home.
Plus, landlords and agents must offer rent payments by bank transfer, and they cannot require you to use specific apps.
If you’re unsure, just ask
“NSW Fair Trading’s website is regularly updated with accurate information, and our team is here to help,” Trina says.
“It’s okay to check with friends, but the best way to protect yourself is to go straight to the official source.”
English (US) · 