NSW Tenancy Law Reforms: What Renters Need to Know

Major changes came into effect on 19 May 2025. Here's how they impact you and how to stay ahead when applying for rentals.

A Fairer System for Renters?

From 19 May 2025, the NSW government introduced a set of tenancy law reforms aimed at creating a more balanced and transparent rental market. While the updates are designed to protect renters, understanding how they affect your application and leasing experience is now more important than ever.

If you're applying for a home in this environment, especially without local rental history, how you approach the process matters.

Key Changes in NSW Tenancy Law Reforms 2025

1. End of 'No Grounds' Evictions

Landlords can no longer terminate agreements without a reason. They must now provide valid grounds, such as:

• Selling the property

• Major renovations

• Moving in themselves

• Breaches of the lease

  
  

This gives renters greater stability - something many applicants have long hoped for. But it also means agents will be extra careful about who they approve upfront.

(If you've been missing out on properties, this article explains why your applications might not be making the cut.)

2. Fairer Rules Around Pets

You can now request to keep a pet in your rental. Landlords can only refuse for valid reasons like property suitability or safety, and if they don’t respond in 21 days - it’s considered approved.

Pet owners still need to present their application carefully to show they’re responsible. This is one of many reasons why a well-prepared application is more important than ever.

3. Rent Increases Limited to Once a Year

Rent can now only be increased once every 12 months - even on continuing leases. This is a welcome change for many, especially in a market where affordability is top of mind.

Still, securing a home you actually want means competing effectively from the beginning. As we covered in this article, a rushed or mismatched application can easily set you back - even if you’re eligible.

4. No More Charges for Application Fees or Lease Prep

Agents and landlords can no longer charge renters for:

• Background checks

• Preparing lease documents

  
  

That’s less upfront cost for tenants, but keep in mind, the quality of your application still affects how quickly you get approved. Many renters still end up losing weeks applying on their own with no success.

5. At Least One Fee-Free Payment Method Required

Agents must offer at least one rent payment method that doesn’t charge fees - like direct transfer. Tenants can’t be forced to use platforms that incur charges.

This is a small win for renters, but for many, the real challenge is getting approved in the first place.

So What Does This Mean for Renters?

While these reforms aim to make things fairer, they also raise the standard for tenants. Agents and landlords will be more selective when offering long-term security.

It’s now even more important to show you’re a trustworthy, stable renter from the very beginning. And without the right documentation, presentation, and process, that can be tough to do alone - especially for those without rental history.

If you don’t have all the typical documents, this guide outlines exactly what you’ll need.

Final Thought

These new rules offer greater protections - but also highlight the importance of getting your rental application right.

If you’re applying on your own, it can be hard to present your situation in the way agents want to see it. That’s why so many renters are now choosing to work with teams who apply for them, handle the agent conversations, and remove the guesswork.

Want help securing a home under the new rules?

We lease properties directly, apply on your behalf, and help renters get approved for the homes they want - with less stress, fewer rejections, and more confidence.

See how it works at findmyhomeaus.com