Common Rooming House Questions in NSW

Living in a rooming or boarding house in New South Wales comes with its own set of questions and regulations. Understanding your rights and obligations can help ensure a harmonious living experience. This guide addresses some of the common questions renters have about rooming and boarding houses in NSW.

What are Rooming and Boarding Houses?

Rooming and boarding houses are shared accommodation where multiple residents rent rooms and share communal facilities like kitchens and bathrooms. They differ from traditional rentals primarily in shared spaces and the nature of agreements.

Key Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant in a rooming house, you have several important rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. These include:

• Right to Privacy: You are entitled to enjoy your room without unwarranted interference.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Landlords must ensure that the property is in reasonable repair.
• Notice Before Entry: The landlord or manager must give you advance notice before entering the property.

Dealing with Rent Increases

Rooming house landlords may increase rent, but they must provide at least 60 days' written notice to tenants. If you believe a rent increase is unreasonable, you can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a review.

Eviction from a Rooming House

Evictions must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. Landlords need to provide a valid reason and sufficient notice, typically 90 days, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Tip: Always ensure that you receive written notices from your landlord and keep records of all communications.

Resolving Disputes

If you face issues such as disputes with landlords or fellow tenants, you may seek assistance from Fair Trading NSW. The NSW Fair Trading website offers resources and guidance on managing such situations.

FAQ Section

1. What is the difference between a rooming and boarding house?Rooming houses typically have fewer services provided by the landlord compared to boarding houses, which may include meals and laundry.
2. Can a landlord enter my room without notice?No, landlords generally must provide proper notice before entering your room unless there is an emergency.
3. What should I do if my rent increases unexpectedly?You can request a hearing at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal to challenge an unjustified rent increase.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need further assistance, the following resources can be useful:

• Tenants' Union of NSW
• NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal
• NSW Fair Trading

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Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 and protect yourself with the support of local resources.

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