Your rights and responsibilities

You have certain rights that Homes NSW will ensure are respected.

Communication

• you are informed of all decisions that Homes NSW makes about your tenancy, including rent, reviews, applications for additional occupants, relocations and transfers
• Homes NSW will explain your tenancy to you, including how much rent and water you will pay and whether you are eligible for a subsidy
• you are given copies of all documents that you need for your tenancy
• Homes NSW policies and procedures are clearly explained to you
• you can ask for an interpreter if needed. You can also ask for someone to act on your behalf (an advocate)
• Homes NSW gives you the required notice of a breach of your tenancy agreement
• Homes NSW gives you notice to vacate if your tenancy is to end
• you are treated fairly and respectfully in all decisions and dealings with Homes NSW.

Clean, Safe and Habitable Home

• Homes NSW will ensure your home is clean, safe and habitable  when you move in and will arrange for appropriate repairs and maintenance during your tenancy
• your home will have adequate security and a working smoke alarm. Repairs to a smoke alarm can only be carried out by Homes NSW
• you can keep pets as long as they are suitable for your home, not a restricted breed, and not a nuisance to neighbours nor a health hazard.

Visiting your Property

• Homes NSW will visit your home with your permission and within the terms of your tenancy agreement
• Homes NSW may enter your property in emergencies, to do urgent repairs, check smoke alarms and address health and safety issues. Where possible, we will seek your consent first
• for more information, please go to: Visiting your home.

Safety and Welfare

• Homes NSW fulfils its obligations to refer child protection issues to the appropriate authorities
• you are able to end your tenancy immediately if you are in circumstances of domestic and family violence and are not the perpetrator
• you have the right to enjoy your home peacefully.

Reviewing Decision and Appealing Outcomes

• you are able to raise any issues you have, with your local office and through Homes NSW’s client feedback service
• you are able to ask for decision reviews through Homes NSW appeals process and the Housing Appeals Committee
• under some circumstances, you are able to apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) if you believe Homes NSW has breached the tenancy agreement with you.