New domestic and family violence rental reforms are now in effect across NSW, strengthening protections for renters experiencing domestic and family violence.
The changes make it easier for victim-survivors to leave a tenancy, recover their share of the rental bond, avoid being held responsible for damage caused by domestic and family violence, and better protect their privacy.
There are also important changes for property managers. Victim-survivors no longer need to notify their co-tenants that they are leaving. Instead, the landlord or agent is responsible for notifying the remaining co-tenants after the tenant has safely left the property. The reforms also expand rights around changing locks, strengthen protections against inappropriate tenancy database listings and introduce new privacy protections around publishing photographs or videos showing a renter’s belongings.
Agencies should now make sure they are using the updated tenancy documents and procedures. This includes the updated Standard residential tenancy agreement and information statements.
Importantly, agencies should also provide all landlords with the new Landlord Information Statement and obtain an acknowledgement that it has been received.
Now is a good time to check your forms, update your procedures and make sure your property management team understands the new requirements.