Navigating Rent, Bond & Deposits in NSW

If you're renting in New South Wales, understanding your rights and obligations around rent, bond, and holding deposits is crucial. This guide will help you navigate these topics, ensuring you're informed and protected.

Common Rent Issues in NSW

As a renter, it's essential to know how your rent is determined and what actions you can take if you face issues like rent increases or payment disputes.

Rent Increases

In New South Wales, landlords can increase rent, but they must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. Notifications should be given at least 60 days before the increase takes effect, provided in writing.

If you believe the increase is excessive, you can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a review. For instance, if you receive a notice for an increase, check its compliance, then decide whether to accept, negotiate, or challenge it.

Bond Claims and Returns

Your rental bond protects the landlord against damages or unpaid rent. In NSW, bond money should be lodged with NSW Fair Trading and returned promptly at the tenancy's end, barring any claims against it.

To claim your bond back, complete a Rental Bond Claim Form and submit it to the Rental Bond Board. This can be particularly useful if you're moving out and want to ensure your bond is returned swiftly.

Ensure you have documented the property's condition at both the start and end of your tenancy to avoid disputes over bond claims.

Understanding Holding Deposits

A holding deposit is generally paid to secure a rental property before the lease agreement is signed. In NSW, this is typically a week's rent and must be applied to the rent once the lease is signed.

If you decide not to proceed with the lease, you might lose this deposit, so consider carefully before making the payment.

FAQ Section

1. What should I do if my rent increase seems unfair? Apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a review of the increase within 30 days of the notice.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my bond? The bond should be returned within 14 days after you vacate the property, assuming no disputes arise.
3. Can I get my holding deposit back? If you do not proceed with the tenancy, the landlord might keep your deposit unless otherwise agreed.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.
• Ensure all rent increases comply with legal requirements.
• Document property conditions to safeguard bond returns.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NSW Fair Trading – Information on renting in NSW
• NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) – Tribunal handling rental disputes
• Tenants' Union of NSW – Support and advice for renters

---

4. @type"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What should I do if my rent increase seems unfair?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a review of the increase within 30 days of the notice."},"@type":"Question","name":"How long does my landlord have to return my bond?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The bond should be returned within 14 days after you vacate the property, assuming no disputes arise."},"@type":"Question","name":"Can I get my holding deposit back?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you do not proceed with the tenancy, the landlord might keep your deposit unless otherwise agreed."}}]"},{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"HowTo","name":"How to challenge a rent increase in New South Wales","step":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Step 1: Review the notice","text":"Check if your landlord followed the state’s rules for notifying you of a rent increase."},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Step 2: Respond in writing","text":"Write to your landlord if you want to negotiate or dispute the increase."},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Step 3: Apply to NCAT","text":"If necessary, apply to NCAT for a review of the rent increase within 30 days of receiving the notice."}]}]}

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid