The residential tenancy agreement in New South Wales underwent significant changes in 2016. These changes aim to provide greater protection to tenants` rights and ensure that landlords comply with their obligations under the law.
One of the most significant changes to the residential tenancy agreement is the requirement for landlords to provide a copy of the new standard form of agreement to tenants before they sign the lease. This form is available on the NSW Fair Trading website and has been designed to be easy to understand and use.
The new standard form of agreement includes several new terms, including a requirement for landlords to attach a copy of the property condition report to the agreement. This report records the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy, and the tenant can use it to prove any damage or issues that were present before they moved in.
Another significant change is the requirement for landlords to provide a minimum of 90 days` notice for a `no grounds` termination of a tenancy. Previously, landlords could terminate a tenancy without providing a reason, but now they must give a valid reason for ending the lease. This change aims to reduce the number of unnecessary evictions and provide greater security for tenants.
The new agreement also includes changes to the rules around rent increases. Landlords can only increase the rent once every 12 months, and they must give the tenant at least 60 days` notice of the increase. This change aims to provide tenants with more certainty around their living expenses and make it easier for them to budget.
If a tenant is experiencing financial hardship, they can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to have their rent reduced. This change aims to provide greater protection to tenants who may be struggling to make ends meet.
Overall, the changes to the residential tenancy agreement in New South Wales aim to provide greater protection to tenants` rights and ensure that landlords comply with their obligations under the law. If you are a tenant or a landlord, it`s essential to familiarise yourself with the new agreement and ensure that you are following the rules.