Resolving Tenancy Disputes in NSW

Ending a tenancy in New South Wales can sometimes lead to disagreements between renters and landlords. It's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities to reach a resolution swiftly and amicably. Whether it's an issue with your notice period, bond return, or any other concern, this guide will provide valuable insights.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

New South Wales has specific regulations governing the end of a tenancy under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. These rules outline what both tenants and landlords must do when a lease concludes.

Notice Requirements

Both landlords and tenants must provide appropriate notice to end a tenancy. If a tenant is ending a fixed-term lease, they must give at least 14 days' notice. For a periodic lease, the minimum is 21 days.

Bond Refund

The bond is an amount paid at the start of the tenancy as a security deposit. At the end of the lease, both parties should agree on the condition of the property to ensure the bond is returned promptly. In case of disputes, tenants can apply to the NSW Fair Trading for assistance.

Addressing Common Disputes

Damage Claims

Landlords may claim part of the bond for damages beyond normal wear and tear. Tenants should document the property's condition comprehensively through photos or videos at the start and end of the tenancy to prevent misunderstandings.

Cleaning Disputes

Prior to moving out, tenants must ensure the property is clean. A detailed clean, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, can help avoid unnecessary complications. Professional cleaning is not mandatory but may be expected if it was done before your tenancy began.

Taking Formal Action

When informal discussions fail, you might need to escalate the dispute. The tribunal responsible for handling tenancy disputes in New South Wales is the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). They provide a structured resolution process, and tenants can lodge an application to resolve the dispute.

The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal is your go-to if informal talks with your landlord don't resolve your tenancy issues.

Relevant Forms and Applications

Filing specific forms is often required when dealing with formal disputes:

  • Notice to Leave: Use this form when terminating your lease. Ensure all timeframes comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.
  • Application for Bond Release: This can be used to request the return of your bond from NSW Fair Trading. Ensure any claims by the landlord are included.
  • NCAT Application Form: Submit this to initiate tribunal proceedings if disputes remain unresolved.

FAQ Section

  1. What notice must I give to end my tenancy in NSW?

    For a fixed-term lease, provide at least 14 days' notice, and for a periodic lease, at least 21 days.

  2. How can I ensure my bond is returned?

    Document the property condition at both the start and end of your tenancy. Resolve damages and cleaning issues before vacating.

  3. What should I do if my landlord claims excessive damages?

    Request a detailed list of claimed damages, compare it with your documentation, and negotiate if necessary. You may escalate to the NCAT if unresolved.

  4. Is professional cleaning necessary?

    No, unless the property was professionally cleaned before your lease began. Clean thoroughly to the standard required by your lease agreement.

  5. Where can I get further assistance with tenancy disputes?

    Contact NSW Fair Trading or NCAT for guidance and support throughout the dispute process.

How to Handle Ending Tenancy Disputes

  1. Check your lease agreement:

    Review any specific clauses related to ending the tenancy.

  2. Document the Property Condition:

    Before vacating, take detailed photos of the property to support any claims regarding its condition.

  3. Communicate with Your Landlord:

    Attempt to resolve issues directly with your landlord before escalating.

  4. Lodge an NCAT Application:

    If a resolution is not reached, consider lodging a formal application with the NCAT.

Proactive communication with your landlord can often resolve disputes without escalation, saving you time and stress.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Stay informed about your rights and communicate issues early to prevent them from escalating.
  2. Understand the proper procedures for ending a tenancy to ensure legal compliance.
  3. Utilize available resources from NSW Fair Trading and NCAT for guidance.
  1. What notice must I give to end my tenancy in NSW?

    For a fixed-term lease, provide at least 14 days' notice, and for a periodic lease, at least 21 days.

  2. How can I ensure my bond is returned?

    Document the property condition at both the start and end of your tenancy. Resolve damages and cleaning issues before vacating.

  3. What should I do if my landlord claims excessive damages?

    Request a detailed list of claimed damages, compare it with your documentation, and negotiate if necessary. You may escalate to the NCAT if unresolved.

  4. Is professional cleaning necessary?

    No, unless the property was professionally cleaned before your lease began. Clean thoroughly to the standard required by your lease agreement.

  5. Where can I get further assistance with tenancy disputes?

    Contact NSW Fair Trading or NCAT for guidance and support throughout the dispute process.

  1. Check your lease agreement:

    Review any specific clauses related to ending the tenancy.

  2. Document the Property Condition:

    Before vacating, take detailed photos of the property to support any claims regarding its condition.

  3. Communicate with Your Landlord:

    Attempt to resolve issues directly with your landlord before escalating.

  4. Lodge an NCAT Application:

    If a resolution is not reached, consider lodging a formal application with the NCAT.

The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal is your go-to if informal talks with your landlord don't resolve your tenancy issues.
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.