NSW Fair Trading has started a tenancy dispute service. The free voluntary service is said to provide a convenient alternative to having residential tenancy matters heard by the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal (CTTT).
The service starts on 1 December 2013 and NSW tenants, landlords and property managers can use the service to resolve selected residential tenancy disputes.
According to Fair Trading the service can be used to assist in resolving disputes to do with:
- repairs and maintenance
- non-urgent health and safety issues
- alterations and additions
- access to the premises including inspections
- non-compliance with the tenancy agreement
- water saving devices and smoke alarms
- provisions of correct notices
- ending a tenancy
- breaking a lease, and
- condition reports.
If the parties cannot agree to a resolution to a dispute, either party may lodge a claim with the CTTT. All other residential tenancy matters not dealt with by Fair Trading will continue to be heard by the CTTT.
For more information about the free dispute resolution service, go to the Residential tenancy dispute page on the Fair Trading website or contact the Fair Trading hotline on 13 32 20.