Landlords, Take Note: Key Changes to Residential Tenancy Laws in NSW
If you’re a residential landlord in New South Wales, now is the time to review your lease agreements and tenancy practices. From 19 May 2025, important reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) come into effect, introducing new rights for tenants and additional obligations for landlords.
At Renee Roumanos Legal, we understand that property owners value clarity, stability, and peace of mind. These changes, while significant, can be managed smoothly with the right legal support. Here’s what you need to know.
✅ Ending a Lease: 'No Grounds' Terminations Removed
Previously, landlords could end a lease without giving a specific reason. Under the new rules, this is no longer permitted.
You’ll now need to provide a valid ground for termination, such as:
You’re selling the property
You’re planning substantial renovations requiring vacant possession
The tenant has breached the agreement
This change is designed to give tenants greater housing stability—but it also means landlords must plan and document tenancy endings more carefully.
💲 Rent Increases: One Per Year Maximum
Rent can now only be increased once every 12 months, regardless of whether the lease is fixed-term or periodic. You must still provide at least 60 days' written notice of any increase.
This restriction may affect your investment planning, so it’s worth reviewing your rent review schedule in light of this update.
🐾 Pets: A Simpler Process for Tenants
Tenants can now request to keep a pet using a prescribed form. As the landlord, you must respond in writing within 21 days—otherwise, approval is taken to be granted.
You can only refuse the request on reasonable grounds, such as:
The pet poses a genuine health or safety risk
The property is unsuitable for the animal
If you're concerned about managing pets in your rental, we can help you update your leases and house rules to reflect these changes.
💳 Rent Payments: Fee-Free Options Required
Landlords must now offer tenants at least one method of paying rent without any fees—typically a direct bank transfer.
You cannot require tenants to use payment platforms that involve service charges unless they’ve freely agreed and alternatives have been offered.
🚫 Banned Fees: No More Admin Charges
Landlords and agents are now prohibited from charging tenants for:
Preparing a tenancy agreement
Conducting background checks
Other administrative start-up costs
To avoid breaching the Act, it’s important that any onboarding fees or charges are reviewed immediately.
How Renee Roumanos Legal Can Support You
These reforms mark a shift in how residential tenancies must be managed across NSW. As a landlord, it’s essential to ensure your practices and documents are compliant to avoid disputes, delays, or financial penalties.
At Renee Roumanos Legal, we can assist with:
Reviewing and updating your residential tenancy agreements
Ensuring your termination processes meet legal requirements
Advising on pet approvals and reasonable refusal grounds
Helping you stay compliant with the new rent and payment rules
📞 Need help navigating the new tenancy rules?
Get in touch today on 02 9054 1311 or book a consultation online.
Let’s make sure your property investment stays protected—and legally sound.
Clear advice. Practical solutions. That’s the Renee Roumanos Legal difference.
