New Free Service for Landlords, Tenants and Property Managers

The NSW Department of Fair Trading Launches the 'Tenancy Complaint Service' on July 31

We are impressed to see that the government's commitment to reducing the number of expensive tribunal cases has resulted in the launch of a simple, fast and free service. Whether you are a  landlord, tenant or property manager - you can access this valuable service online or by phone to receive impartial , up to date information on your tenancy issue.

Fair Trading has been trialing the new, specialist service since December 2013. By June 30 2014, they had received 1,522 tenancy complaints, with 88% resolved without the need for higher cost resolution options.

The tenancy complaint service can assist with complaints about:

• repairs and maintenance
• non-urgent health and safety issues
• alterations to premises
• access to premises or inspections
• non-compliance with tenancy agreement
• water saving devices and smoke alarms
• provision of correct notices
• ending a tenancy or breaking a lease
• condition reports
• rental increases
• rental arrears of less than 14 days.

Tenants, landlords and property managers can now contact Fair Trading’s tenancy complaint service and speak to experienced staff who will talk through the issues and contact the other party to help negotiate an agreement. This new service can be a simple and fast alternative to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).

The service can be accessed by lodging a complaint online or calling 13 32 20.