NSW Entry Condition Report Requirements & Template
Compliant with the Residential Tenancies Act 2010, s29. Updated for 2025-2026.
Quick Answer
An NSW entry condition report documents the property's condition at the start of a tenancy. It is legally required under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. The landlord must give the tenant the report before or at handover; the tenant must sign and return it within 7 days.
NSW Entry Condition Report Requirements
Key Requirements for the NSW Entry Report
Complete the report before handing over keys — not after
Document every room using the prescribed NSW Fair Trading form
Photograph all defects or areas of concern at the time of the inspection
Provide two copies to the tenant: one for them to keep, one to sign and return
Tenant has 7 days from taking possession to sign and return their copy
Retain the signed copy for the full tenancy and at least 2 years after it ends
Frequently Asked Questions — NSW Entry Report
Is an entry condition report legally required in NSW?
Yes. Under section 29 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2010, landlords must give tenants a condition report before or when they take possession. Failure to do so can affect the landlord's ability to claim bond deductions.
What happens if the tenant doesn't return the NSW entry condition report?
If the tenant doesn't return their signed copy within 7 days, the landlord's version is taken as agreed. However, it's still best practice to follow up — disputes at end of tenancy are easier to resolve with a signed entry report.
Does NSW require photos in the condition report?
Photos are not legally required in NSW, but they are strongly recommended. Clear, timestamped photos provide the strongest evidence in bond disputes before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).
Can I use a digital condition report in NSW?
Yes. NSW accepts digital condition reports provided both parties can access and sign the document. Tools like ConditionHQ generate a compliant PDF and allow in-app digital signatures.
Create Your NSW Entry Condition Report Now
Keep photos, condition ratings and your written observations together in your NSW entry condition report. Review your findings before exporting a PDF.
No credit card required. 1 free report every month.