As a resident of New South Wales, it`s important to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to renting a property. One crucial aspect of renting is signing a residential tenancy agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy.
The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) provides a framework for residential tenancies in New South Wales, including the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. In 2019, several changes were made to the standard residential tenancy agreement to provide greater protections for tenants.
Some of the key changes to the residential tenancy agreement in 2019 include:
– The requirement for landlords to provide a copy of the “New tenant checklist” to their tenants before the tenancy begins. This checklist outlines the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, as well as important information about the property.
– Limits on the amount of rent in advance that a landlord can request. Landlords can now only ask for a maximum of 2 weeks` rent in advance for properties with a rent of $700 or less per week, or 4 weeks` rent in advance for properties with a rent of more than $700 per week.
– The removal of the “no grounds” eviction clause. Previously, landlords could evict tenants for no reason with 90 days` notice. Now, landlords must provide a valid reason for eviction, such as the tenant breaching the terms of the tenancy agreement.
– Additional protections for victims of domestic violence. Tenants who are victims of domestic violence can now end their tenancy immediately and without penalty by providing their landlord with a domestic violence termination notice and evidence of the violence.
When signing a residential tenancy agreement, it`s important to read and understand all of the terms and conditions before agreeing to them. If you have any questions or concerns about the agreement, don`t hesitate to speak with your landlord or a legal professional.
Remember, as a tenant in New South Wales, you have certain rights and protections under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW). By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can ensure a positive and secure tenancy experience.