Start with the property and application form
Inspect the home and check that its size, access, transport connections and utilities suit your household. Ask about embedded electricity or hot-water networks, which may affect your choice of supplier.
Complete the landlord’s or agent’s application form. NSW guidance says applications should be considered before a tenant is selected. Ask when you can expect an update and keep a copy of what you submit.
Supporting documents and privacy
Evidence should be relevant to assessing the tenancy, such as a rental ledger or payslip showing your ability to pay. Ask why a sensitive document is needed before providing it.
NSW Fair Trading says you are not obliged to give an agent a consumer credit report. Charging applicants for credit or other background checks is prohibited.
Bond, advance rent and holding fees
For a residential tenancy, the bond cannot exceed four weeks’ rent and requested rent in advance cannot exceed two weeks.
An approved applicant may be asked for a holding fee of up to one week’s rent. It must count towards rent if you sign. The property is held for seven days, or longer by agreement. You may lose the fee if you withdraw, subject to exceptions such as undisclosed material facts or misrepresentation.
Application, viewing and background-check fees are not permitted. Keep receipts and confirm the Rental Bonds Online process.
If this is your first rental in NSW
Tell the agent which rental-history fields do not apply to you, rather than leaving unexplained gaps. Ask which relevant alternatives they will consider, such as an employment reference or evidence of your current ability to pay. Get a referee’s permission before sharing their contact details.
If you are moving from public housing, NSW guidance identifies a Statement of Satisfactory Tenancy as one way to support an application. Ask the housing provider about obtaining it.
Your application checklist
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General information for private residential rentals, based on the official sources linked here. Rules can change and different arrangements, including rooming accommodation and social housing, may have different requirements. Check the relevant authority for advice about your situation. Suggest a correction.