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Compliance Guide

SA Condition Report Compliance Guide

Everything property managers need to know about condition report requirements in South Australia. Updated for 2026 reforms.

Governing Legislation

Residential Tenancies Act 1995

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SA Requirements at a Glance

Entry Condition Report

Legally required at the start of every tenancy

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

Yes — must use the prescribed Inspection Sheet

Key Details

Prescribed Form

Inspection Sheet

Tenant Return Timeframe

At start and end of tenancy

Photo Requirements

Not legally required, but strongly recommended as evidence for bond disputes.

Bond Protection

Required for all tenancies regardless of bond payment.

Recent Reforms (2026)

What Changed

Standardized rental application form from January 2026.

5 Common Compliance Mistakes in SA

1

Not completing the inspection sheet for both the start and end of tenancy

2

Using a non-standard form instead of the prescribed inspection sheet

3

Missing documentation of outdoor areas and carports

4

Not recording appliance conditions (oven, cooktop, dishwasher)

5

Failing to update the inspection sheet for the January 2026 standardised form requirements

Frequently Asked Questions — SA Compliance

Is a condition report mandatory in SA?

Yes. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1995, an inspection sheet must be completed at the start and end of every tenancy.

What is an 'inspection sheet' in SA?

South Australia uses the term 'inspection sheet' rather than 'condition report'. It serves the same purpose — documenting the condition of the property at the start and end of tenancy.

Has SA introduced new forms for 2026?

Yes. A standardised rental application form was introduced from January 2026. Landlords and tenants in SA must use this prescribed form.

Are photos required in SA inspection sheets?

Photos are not legally required but are strongly recommended as evidence for bond disputes.

Who completes the SA inspection sheet?

The landlord or agent prepares the initial inspection sheet. The tenant should review it and note any disagreements.

Related Resources

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