Rental compliance · Victoria & NSW
NSW rental minimum standards and safety checks
I've kept Victoria and NSW separate so you can find the right information for your property. Choose your state, check the government guidance and have a qualified person confirm what applies to your situation.
New South Wales
7 minimum standards
The seven minimum standards apply at the start of a tenancy and must be maintained throughout it. Meeting the seven standards does not necessarily mean a home is otherwise fit to live in.
The seven NSW requirements for homes fit to live in.
Structural soundnessBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Property must be structurally sound and fit to live in.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
These seven items are a minimum; other issues can still make a home unfit for habitation.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsLightingBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Adequate natural or artificial lighting in each room except storage rooms and garages.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
Appropriate light must be provided for the rooms in use.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsVentilationBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Adequate ventilation throughout the home.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
The landlord must maintain the standard during the tenancy.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsElectricity or gasBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Electricity or gas supply and enough outlets for lighting, heating and other appliances.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
NSW does not impose universal two-yearly gas and electrical checks for every rental.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsPlumbing and drainageBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Adequate plumbing and drainage.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
Faults may separately trigger repair obligations.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsWater supplyBefore the tenancy and throughout itLast content review: 22 October 2026
Requirement: Water connection capable of providing hot and cold water for drinking, washing and cleaning.
When: Before the tenancy and throughout it
Water-efficiency conditions for passing on usage charges are a separate requirement.
Last content review: 22 October 2026
NSW Fair Trading · Minimum standardsSummary based on official guidance checked on 22 October 2026. The content review is not a legal sign-off or a finding that any particular property complies. Specific agreements, property features, exemptions and transitional dates may change what applies.