Ending a Tenancy in South Australia: Key Insights

Ending a tenancy in South Australia can be a process filled with questions, especially for renters looking to ensure they follow the legal pathway correctly. Whether it's giving notice, resolving disputes, or securing your bond, understanding the steps involved can make your move smoother.

Understanding Notice Requirements

In South Australia, renters must typically give landlords at least 21 days' notice when ending a lease. This notice must be in writing and adhere to any specific terms outlined in your rental agreement. If your tenancy is on a fixed-term lease, ending it early could mean needing to negotiate with your landlord or face potential costs.

Form: Notice of Termination

The Notice of Termination form is crucial when initiating the process to end a tenancy. This form notifies the landlord of your intent to vacate. Learn more about the Notice to Vacate form on the South Australian Government website.

Bond Recovery

Retrieving your bond is an important step in moving out. Make sure to leave the property in good condition to avoid disputes. Once you've moved out, apply for your bond back using the official channels.

Condition Reports Are Your Friends

Before moving in and after moving out, a condition report can protect you. It serves as evidence of the property's state and can be pivotal in resolving disagreements over bond deductions.

Handling Disputes

If disagreements arise, such as over bond refunds or property damage, tenants should seek to resolve these through discussion. If this fails, you can take matters to the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT), which handles rental disputes.

Ensure all communications with your landlord are documented to support your case if a dispute arises.

See more about the process on the SACAT website: South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Legal Protections

Renters are safeguarded by the Residential Tenancies Act 1995, which outlines your rights and responsibilities, including notice periods and conditions for termination.

  1. What happens if I leave without notice? Leaving without correct notice can result in financial liabilities or impact your ability to rent in the future.
  2. Can my landlord keep my bond? Landlords can only keep your bond for specific reasons, such as unpaid rent or property damage. Any disputes can be mediated through SACAT.
  3. What if there's damage to the property? Document all damages and repairs. Discuss the issues with your landlord; unresolved cases can be taken to SACAT.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need more assistance, the following resources can help:


  1. When ending a tenancy, know your notice period and use the official Notice of Termination form.
  2. Always ensure the property is left in good condition to facilitate a smooth bond return.
  3. In case of disputes, document all communications and consider SACAT for resolution.
  1. How to end a tenancy properly? Provide a written notice according to your agreement and confirm receipt with your landlord.
  2. How to claim my bond back? After vacating, submit a bond claim form to the relevant authority, ensuring the property meets condition requirements.
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.