NT Condition Report Compliance Guide
Everything property managers need to know about condition report requirements in Northern Territory. Updated for 2025 reforms.
NT condition reports: the short answer
You should receive a completed, signed report within three business days of starting the tenancy. Within five business days of receiving it, sign and return it or mark changes and return it. Taking no action means accepting the report.
Source: Northern Territory Government — condition report guidance. Summary checked .
Example of a useful condition note
Instead of “wall damaged”, write “Bedroom 1, wall beside the door: two paint chips, approximately 10 mm each; shown in photos 3 and 4.” Record what you observed, where it is and the matching photo references. Mark an item “not tested” if you did not test it. This is an illustrative example, not an inspection finding.
ConditionHQ helps organise your observations. Check the authority’s current form and instructions for your tenancy; a checklist or software export does not by itself establish legal compliance.
NT Requirements at a Glance
Entry Condition Report
Required at the start; check the official guidance above
Exit Condition Report
Legally required at the end of every tenancy
Bond Condition
Required regardless of whether a bond is paid
Photos Required
Photos not legally required, but strongly recommended for evidence
Standard Prescribed Form
No standard form — landlords create their own
Key Details
Recent Reforms (2025)
5 Common Compliance Mistakes in NT
Not creating a condition report at all because there's no standard form
Using an inadequate template that doesn't cover all areas of the property
Not including photos — while not legally required, they're essential for evidence
Failing to get both parties to sign and date the report
Not keeping records for at least 12 months after the tenancy ends
Frequently Asked Questions — NT Compliance
Is a condition report mandatory in NT?
Yes. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1999, a condition report must be completed at the start and end of every tenancy.
Why is NT different from other states?
The NT is the only Australian jurisdiction that does not provide an official standard condition report form. Landlords and agents must create their own or use a third-party template.
What should an NT condition report include?
A comprehensive NT condition report should cover every room, all fixtures and fittings, outdoor areas, meter readings, key inventory, and the overall condition of the property. Photos should be included.
Are photos required in NT condition reports?
There is no legal requirement for photos, but they are essential evidence for any bond dispute. Always include timestamped photos.
How long should NT condition reports be kept?
Records should be kept for at least 12 months after the tenancy ends, though keeping them longer is recommended for legal protection.
Related Resources
Stay Compliant in NT Automatically
ConditionHQ uses the correct NT template automatically. Start free in your browser, or download the app for iPhone & iPad.
1 free report every month. No credit card.