Owning property in NSW comes with ongoing responsibilities — not just at settlement, but every single year.
Many owners only discover compliance obligations when something goes wrong: an overdue safety check, a missed renewal, or unexpected fees landing in the inbox. The reality is that most property obligations don’t arrive neatly packaged with reminders.
This guide breaks down the key compliance and ownership checkpoints NSW property owners should stay on top of in 2026, in plain English. Whether you’re a landlord, investor, or new homeowner, this calendar helps you stay organised, confident, and proactive.
Annual Essentials (Every Year)
These items apply to most NSW residential properties and should be reviewed at least once every 12 months.
🔔 Smoke Alarm Servicing
NSW legislation requires working smoke alarms in all residential properties. For rental properties, annual servicing and compliance checks are now standard practice.
Tip: Book inspections early — peak periods fill fast.
💧 Water Efficiency Check (Rental Properties)
Rental properties must meet minimum water efficiency standards if water usage is passed on to tenants. This includes efficient shower heads, taps, and leak-free systems.
Tip: Small upgrades can prevent ongoing disputes and unexpected repairs.
🏠 Building & Landlord Insurance Review
Insurance premiums across NSW have increased following recent weather events and rebuild cost inflation.
Review annually:
– Building sum insured
– Public liability coverage
– Loss of rent protection
– Excess levels
Tip: Underinsurance is more common than most owners realise.
🏢 Strata Levies & AGM (If Applicable)
Strata schemes typically hold an Annual General Meeting once per year. This sets budgets, levies, maintenance plans and upcoming works.
Tip: Review minutes carefully — upcoming capital works can affect cash flow and resale value.
Every 6–12 Months
🔍 Routine Property Inspections (Rental Properties)
In NSW, routine inspections are limited to a maximum of four per year. These inspections help identify maintenance issues early and protect long-term asset condition.
🔌 General Safety Check (Recommended)
While NSW doesn’t mandate annual electrical or gas safety certificates (unlike some other states), proactive checks significantly reduce risk and insurance issues.
Tip: Preventative maintenance is usually cheaper than emergency repairs.
Lease & Tenancy Timing (Rental Properties)
📄 Lease Renewals
Most residential leases run for 6–12 months. Review rental strategy, lease terms, and tenant plans well before expiry.
⏳ Rent Review Rules (NSW Update)
As of recent NSW rental reforms:
– Rent increases are limited to once every 12 months.
– A minimum 60 days’ written notice is required.
Tip: Forward planning avoids rushed decisions and compliance errors.
Quarterly & Periodic Reminders
🧾 Council Rates
Council rates are typically issued quarterly. Review for accuracy, especially after revaluations in growth corridors.
💰 Strata Levies
Levies are commonly payable quarterly. Budget ahead for any special levies flagged in AGM minutes.
🏦 Land Tax Assessments
Land tax notices usually arrive annually. Ensure ownership details and exemptions are correctly recorded.
Special Circumstances
🏊 Pool Safety (If Applicable)
Properties with swimming pools must meet NSW pool safety standards and maintain valid certification when selling or leasing.
🌪️ Weather Readiness
With more extreme weather patterns affecting NSW, seasonal property checks (gutters, drainage, fencing, roofing) help prevent insurance claims and tenant disruption.
Why a Compliance Calendar Matters
Staying organised:
– Reduces legal and financial risk
– Prevents rushed decision-making
– Protects asset value
– Improves long-term returns
– Minimises stress and surprises
Most issues arise not from neglect — but from timing being forgotten.
Final Thought
Good property ownership isn’t reactive. It’s steady, organised, and informed.
A simple annual compliance rhythm gives owners clarity, confidence, and better control over their investment or home.
If you’d like help building a personalised compliance plan for your property — or want support managing inspections, renewals, and timelines — our team is here to help.
👉 Contact Us Today to discuss how we can support your property and keep everything running smoothly.
