How to Increase Rent in New South Wales (2026)
A clear, step-by-step guide for NSW landlords — covering notice periods, legislation, and the process from start to finish.
Legal requirements for rent increases in NSW
What is fair market rent?
Fair market rent is the amount a property would reasonably rent for in the current market, based on comparable properties in the same area. It's determined by looking at actual rents being paid — not asking prices or landlord expectations.
In NSW, the primary source of rental data is bond lodgement statistics published by the NSW Fair Trading. When a new tenancy begins, the bond is lodged with the regulator, creating a reliable record of actual rents being charged. We also cross-reference this with weekly asking rents from SQM Research.
Llord's Rent Check tool pulls this data automatically and gives you a personalised analysis for your specific property — taking into account your suburb, property type, and bedroom count.
Step-by-step: how to increase rent in NSW
Check your eligibility
Confirm that at least 12 months have passed since the last rent increase (or the start of the tenancy). If you're unsure, your tenant can request written proof of the last increase.
Research the market
Check what comparable properties in your area are renting for. Use Llord's Rent Check tool for an instant analysis backed by real bond data and market listings.
Decide on the new rent amount
Choose a figure that reflects the market but is fair to your tenant. A reasonable increase is less likely to be disputed at the tribunal or cause your tenant to leave.
Serve the notice
Give your tenant a written notice of rent increase at least 60 days before the increase takes effect. The notice must state the new rent amount and the effective date.
Wait for the notice period
The 60-day notice period must expire before the new rent applies. During this time, the tenant continues paying the current rent. They may apply to NCAT if they believe the increase is excessive.
New rent takes effect
Once the notice period has passed and no dispute is lodged, the tenant pays the new rent from the effective date. Update your records accordingly.
Common mistakes landlords make
Not giving enough notice
The notice must be served at least 60 days before the increase takes effect. If posted, allow additional time for delivery. A short notice period makes the increase invalid.
Increasing rent too frequently
Rent can only be increased once in any 12-month period. This applies to the premises, regardless of changes in tenancy or ownership.
Setting rent above market rate
If the increase is excessive, the tenant can apply to NCAT for a review. The tribunal compares your rent to similar properties in the area. Use real data to justify your figure.
Not putting it in writing
A verbal rent increase is not valid. The notice must be in writing and include the new amount and effective date.
Not knowing the effective date rules
The increase cannot take effect earlier than 60 days after the notice is given. Serve the notice well in advance to avoid disputes.
Ready to check your rent?
Get a free AI rent analysis for your NSW property — backed by real market data. If you decide to increase, we'll generate a compliant notice for you.
Check My Rent NowFrequently asked questions
How much notice do I need to give in NSW?
Under Section 41 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW), you must give at least 60 days written notice before the rent increase takes effect.
How often can I increase rent?
Rent can only be increased once in any 12-month period. This applies to the premises, not the tenancy — so it includes periods under different tenants or owners.
Can my tenant dispute the increase?
Yes. The tenant can apply to NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for a review before the increase takes effect. The tribunal will consider whether the increase is excessive compared to market rent.
What if I haven't increased rent in years?
You can still only increase rent once per 12-month period. If it's been more than 12 months since the last increase (or since the tenancy started), you're eligible to increase rent by giving 60 days notice.
Do I need a specific form?
The notice must be in writing and include the new rent amount, the date the increase takes effect, and be served at least 60 days before that date. Llord generates a compliant notice for you automatically.
This guide is based on Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW). Legislation is subject to change — always check with the NSW Fair Trading for the latest requirements. Llord provides general information only, not legal advice. See our Terms of Service.