Understanding how much notice you need to give when ending a tenancy can make moving house a lot easier. Whether you’re coming to the end of a fixed-term lease, moving out of a periodic agreement or need to leave your rental property early, the notice requirements in NSW can vary depending on your circumstances.
NSW rental laws have changed in recent years, including changes that came into effect on 19 May 2025. These reforms introduced new rules around the reasons a landlord can use to end a tenancy, making it more important than ever for both tenants and landlords to understand the correct notice periods.
Here’s what tenants need to know about ending a residential tenancy in NSW.
How much notice do tenants need to give?
The amount of notice a tenant must provide depends on the type of tenancy agreement and the reason for ending the tenancy.
For most situations, tenants must provide a formal termination notice to their landlord or property manager. Notice periods are generally calculated in calendar days, meaning weekends and public holidays are included. The day the notice is served is not counted.
Ending a periodic tenancy
If you’re renting under a periodic agreement and want to move out, you generally need to give your landlord or property manager at least 21 days’ notice.
This applies when ending a periodic tenancy for any reason.
Ending a fixed-term tenancy
If your fixed-term lease is coming to an end, you can give your landlord or property manager at least 14 days’ notice to end the tenancy on or after the fixed-term agreement expires.
If you want to leave before the fixed-term agreement ends, different rules may apply depending on your circumstances. You may need to provide an early exit notice, or you may be responsible for costs associated with breaking the lease.
It’s important to speak with your property manager before making plans to leave a fixed-term tenancy early so you understand your obligations.
Notice periods for tenants in NSW
The following are some of the most common situations where a tenant may need to provide notice:
|
Reason for ending the tenancy |
Fixed-term agreement |
Periodic agreement |
|
End of periodic agreement |
N/A |
21 days |
|
Co-tenant ending their own tenancy |
21 days |
21 days |
|
Breach of agreement |
14 days* |
14 days |
|
Non-disclosure of required information |
14 days* |
14 days |
|
End of a fixed-term agreement |
14 days |
N/A |
|
Early exit notice |
14 days* |
N/A |
|
Early termination without penalty |
14 days* |
N/A |
|
Rent increase on a fixed-term agreement of 2 years or more |
21 days* |
N/A |
|
Domestic violence termination |
Immediate* |
Immediate |
|
Property is unusable |
Immediate* |
Immediate |
|
Death of a sole tenant |
Immediate* |
Immediate |
*Some circumstances have specific eligibility requirements and may only apply in particular situations. Tenants should check the relevant NSW Fair Trading requirements before relying on these provisions.
These are not the only circumstances in which a tenancy can end. There are additional grounds and situations where an application to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) may be required.
What if you need to leave before your lease ends?
Leaving a fixed-term tenancy early can have financial and legal implications, so it’s important to understand your options before handing back the keys.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to use an early exit notice or terminate the tenancy without penalty. In other situations, you may be responsible for costs associated with breaking the agreement.
If you’re considering leaving early, contact your property manager as soon as possible. They can explain the process and help you understand what applies to your particular tenancy.
What happens if your landlord gives you notice?
If your landlord or property manager gives you a termination notice, you may be able to leave the property before the termination date.
For a periodic agreement, a tenant can generally leave at any time before the termination date and will not be required to pay rent after they have moved out and returned possession of the property.
For a fixed-term agreement, a tenant can provide a minimum 14-day early exit notice after receiving a landlord’s termination notice.
This means you may not necessarily have to remain in the property until the termination date specified by the landlord.
How do you calculate your notice period?
Notice periods in NSW are generally calculated using calendar days, rather than business days. This means weekends and public holidays are included.
The day the notice is served is not counted as part of the notice period.
For example, if you are required to give 21 days’ notice, the 21-day period begins on the day after your notice is served.
If a landlord or agent sends a termination notice to a tenant by post, an additional 7 working days must be allowed for delivery.
To avoid confusion, it’s a good idea to keep a copy of your notice and record the date and method it was provided.
Does notice need to line up with your rent payment cycle?
No. A termination notice does not have to line up with your usual rent payment cycle.
For example, if you normally pay rent weekly or fortnightly, your notice period is still calculated according to the relevant number of calendar days.
Your property manager can help confirm the correct termination date and any rent payable up to that date.
What should you include in your notice?
A termination notice should contain the information required under NSW tenancy laws, including the address of the rental property and the date the tenancy is to end.
If you’re unsure whether your notice is valid or whether you’ve provided the correct amount of notice, it’s best to speak with your property manager before making arrangements to move.
Providing the correct notice helps ensure the tenancy is ended properly and can make the transition to your next home much smoother.
What happens when you move out?
When your tenancy ends, you need to provide vacant possession of the property. This generally means moving out and returning the keys to your landlord or property manager.
Before handing back the keys, make sure you’ve:
- Removed all personal belongings from the property
- Cleaned the property in line with your tenancy obligations
- Completed any agreed repairs or maintenance
- Removed rubbish and unwanted items
- Returned all keys, remotes and access devices
- Provided your forwarding address and updated contact details where required
- Taken photos of the property’s condition for your records
It’s also a good idea to complete your final inspection and make sure any outstanding matters are discussed with your property manager.
What if you are unsure about your notice period?
NSW tenancy legislation can be complex, and the correct notice period will depend on your individual circumstances.
If you’re planning to move, your first step should be to contact your property manager. They can help you understand the requirements of your tenancy agreement and the relevant notice period that applies to your situation.
For the most up-to-date information about NSW residential tenancy laws and notice periods, tenants can also refer to NSW Fair Trading.
At PMC Property Management, we understand that moving can be a busy and sometimes stressful process. Our property management teams are here to help make the process as straightforward as possible, from understanding your notice requirements through to your final inspection and handover.
Please note: This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal advice. NSW tenancy laws can change, and specific circumstances may have different requirements. For the most current information, refer to NSW Fair Trading or seek independent legal advice.