Help for Rooming & Boarding Houses in NSW

If you're renting in a rooming or boarding house in New South Wales, understanding your rights and knowing where to seek help can significantly impact your renting experience. Whether you face a rent increase, maintenance issue, or potential eviction, various resources are available to assist you in navigating these challenges.

Understanding Your Rights as a Lodger

Rooming and boarding house residents in NSW are covered under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. This legislation provides vital information about your rights and responsibilities, including fair treatment, proper notice for rent increases, and conditions for eviction.

Forms You Might Need

Depending on your situation, specific forms may be required when addressing issues with your landlord:

  • Residential Tenancies Application for Termination – Use this form if you need to formally request an end to your tenancy agreement under specific circumstances. Available on the NSW government site: NSW Tenancy Forms.
  • Condition Report – Important for both tenancy commencement and termination. Documenting the property's condition can help settle disputes regarding damages.
Understanding and using these forms effectively can ensure that your rights as a lodger are protected.

Where to Get Help

Legal Aid and Advocacy Services

  • Legal Aid NSW - Provides legal assistance and resources for tenants needing advice.
  • Tenants' Union of NSW - Offers advocacy support for housing issues, including boarding and rooming houses.

Contacting the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)

If a dispute arises, the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) is the formal avenue to resolve rental disagreements. Whether it's a rental issue, bond dispute, or eviction challenge, NCAT acts as a neutral party to make determinations based on the evidence provided.

FAQ Section

  1. What are my rights if my rent increases without proper notice? You have the right to challenge any rent increase that does not follow the correct notice period as specified in your rental agreement and under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.
  2. Am I protected from eviction without reason? Residents in rooming or boarding houses are generally protected from eviction without reasonable cause. Exact provisions depend on your occupancy agreement and the legislation in place.
  3. What should I do if I need urgent repairs? Inform your landlord immediately. If they fail to respond, consult resources like Legal Aid NSW to explore your options for dispute resolution.

How-To Section

  1. How to challenge a rent increase in New South Wales
    1. Step 1: Review the notice - Ensure the notice complies with the legal requirements set in NSW, including appropriate timeframes and justifications.
    2. Step 2: Respond in writing - Contact your landlord or agent to negotiate or object to the increase. Provide clear reasons supported by any applicable legislation.
    3. Step 3: Seek tribunal resolution - If negotiations fail, apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a formal review.

Key Takeaways

  • Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 to handle disputes efficiently.
  • Use official resources like Legal Aid NSW and NCAT for reliable support and advice.
  • Official forms are crucial for documenting agreements and conditions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) - Legislation governing fair trading and consumer protection across Australia [Source: legislation.gov.au]
  2. Residential Tenancies Act 2010 - Primary legislation for tenancy issues in NSW [Source: legislation.nsw.gov.au]
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Australia

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.