NSW Renters: Privacy & Landlord Entry Guide

Renting a home in New South Wales means understanding both your rights and responsibilities, especially concerning privacy and landlord entry. Navigating these rules ensures that your home remains a private sanctuary while also acknowledging the rights of your landlord.

What Are My Privacy Rights as a Tenant in NSW?

As a renter in NSW, your right to privacy is protected under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. This law outlines how and when a landlord can enter your rented premises.

When Can a Landlord Enter My Property?

Your landlord may enter the property without your consent in certain circumstances:

• In an emergency
• To carry out urgent repairs
• If they have obtained a Tribunal order

In non-urgent situations, landlords must give at least 7 days' written notice to conduct an inspection or carry out repairs, and they must enter between 8 am and 8 pm on a weekday or Saturday.

Understanding Entry Notices

When your landlord needs access for non-emergency reasons, they must provide written notice specifying the reason for entry, the proposed date and time, and giving you at least 2 days' notice.

Note: If you dispute the reason for entry, you may refer the matter to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for resolution.

What About Repairs?

If the landlord needs to enter to do necessary repairs, they must still give reasonable notice unless the repairs are urgent. Use the NSW Condition Report form to document any repairs needed when you first inspect the property. This helps when discussing repairs later.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Tenants' Union of NSW
• Redfern Legal Centre
• NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)

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1. Can my landlord enter without my permission? Yes, but only under specific conditions such as emergencies, agreed inspections, or Tribunal orders.
2. How often can inspections occur? Inspections can occur up to four times a year, provided proper notice is given.
3. What if I dispute an entry request? You can negotiate with the landlord or lodge a dispute with NCAT if needed.

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• Always check the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 for updates.
• Document all communications and notices for your records.
• Seek help from legal centres if your rights are not being respected.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW)
2. NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)

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