The Minns Labor Government is introducing rental laws to end no-grounds evictions.
These changes bring NSW into line with other states including the ACT, South Australia and Victoria who have legislated their own model to end no grounds evictions.
Under current laws, owners of a rental property can end a residential periodic lease at any time for any or no reason. This leads to insecurity and uncertainty for tenants. Under the proposed reforms, the property owner must have a reasonable excuse to end a periodic or fixed term lease. These include:
- The existing rules where the renter is at fault, because of a breach of lease, damage to the property, or non-payment of rent.
- Where the property is being sold or offered for sale with vacant possession.
- Where significant repairs or renovations make inhabiting the property too difficult or it will be demolished. If a homeowner seeks to renovate or repair a home, it cannot be relisted for a period of at least 4 weeks.
- If the property will no longer be used as a rental home, i.e a change of use.
- Where the owner or their family intend to move into the property.
- If the renter is no longer eligible for an affordable housing program or if the property is purpose-built student accommodation and the renter is no longer a student.
Termination notices now have set time frames. Read more about the reforms here:
