As a tenant, having a landlord break your lease agreement can be a stressful and frustrating experience. In New South Wales (NSW), tenants have certain rights and protections under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010, including the ability to hold their landlord accountable for breaching the lease agreement.
If your landlord breaks the lease agreement, they could be liable for compensation or damages. However, the process of resolving the issue can be complicated, and it`s important to have a good understanding of your rights and legal options.
What is a lease agreement?
A lease agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy. This document serves to protect both parties and ensures that both the tenant and landlord understand their responsibilities and obligations.
A lease agreement typically includes details such as the rent amount, the length of the tenancy, the security deposit, and any specific rules or requirements for the property.
What actions can a landlord take that would constitute breaking the lease agreement?
A landlord can breach the lease agreement in a number of ways, such as:
• Evicting the tenant without notice or a valid reason
• Failing to maintain the property to a reasonable standard
• Entering the property without providing proper notice
• Charging illegal or excessive fees
• Refusing to make necessary repairs or upgrades
What steps should you take if your landlord breaches the lease agreement?
If your landlord has breached your lease agreement, you should:
1. Document everything: Keep detailed records of all communication with your landlord and any relevant incidents.
2. Contact your landlord: Make your landlord aware of the issue and give them the opportunity to rectify it.
3. Send a written notice: If your landlord doesn`t respond, send them a written notice outlining the issue and the steps you expect them to take to rectify it.
4. File a complaint: If the issue still isn`t resolved, you can file a complaint with the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
It`s important to remember that the process of resolving a breach of the lease agreement can be time-consuming and stressful. However, by staying organized, communicating clearly, and understanding your legal rights, you can hold your landlord accountable and protect your rights as a tenant.