NSW Rental Law Changes: What Renters and Owners Need to Know
Q: What are the new rental laws in NSW starting May 2025?
A: From 19 May 2025, landlords in New South Wales (NSW) can no longer evict tenants without a valid reason and cannot automatically refuse pets in rental properties.
Q: Why is NSW making these changes?
A: The government wants to provide more security for renters and create fairer rules for both tenants and landlords. With more people renting long-term, these updates aim to modernize the rental market.
Q: How do the new eviction rules work?
A: Right now, landlords can end a lease without giving a reason, as long as they provide:
- 90 days' notice for periodic leases
- 30 days' notice before ending a fixed-term lease under 6 months
Under the new laws, landlords must give a valid reason to end any lease type.
Q: What about notice periods for renters?
A: Renters will have more time to find a new home when evicted. If a tenant finds a new place after getting an eviction notice, they will have better rights to end their lease early.
Q: How do the new pet rules work?
A: Tenants can now apply to keep a pet in their rental. Landlords can only refuse for specific reasons, such as:
- The pet violates local council laws
- The landlord also lives in the property
If a landlord does not respond to a pet request within 21 days, approval is automatically granted.
Q: Are there any changes to rent payments?
A: Yes. Renters will now have access to free and easy payment options, like direct bank transfers, to avoid extra fees on rent payments.
Q: Who will make sure landlords follow these new rules?
A: The NSW Fair Trading Rental Taskforce will monitor compliance and make sure renters and landlords understand their rights and responsibilities.
Q: Are more rental law changes coming?
A: Yes. Later in 2025, the government plans to introduce:
- Stronger privacy protections for renters
- A portable rental bond scheme, making it easier to transfer rental bonds when moving
Q: Where can I get more information?
A: The NSW Rental Commissioner encourages both renters and landlords to stay informed about the new laws to avoid disputes and penalties.