REINSW Secures Clarity on Re-letting Approval Applications

19 June 2026

REINSW members have recently raised concerns regarding delays in obtaining the Secretary’s approval to re-let residential premises during a tenancy exclusion period following termination for proposed sale. Members have also reported uncertainty about how to follow up on the status of outstanding applications.

In response to this feedback and to support our members, REINSW sought greater clarity from NSW Fair Trading on the application process and available avenues for obtaining updates. We are pleased to share the guidance provided by NSW Fair Trading.

NSW Fair Trading's guidance

  • Responses to re-letting applications are generally issued within three days, with the average response time being one day.
  • If a re-letting application is refused, the response timeframe may extend to two to four weeks to allow the necessary approvals to be obtained.
  • If required documentation is not included with the application - such as the termination notice or evidence of the change in circumstances - NSW Fair Trading will request this information before progressing the application.
    Delays in responding to requests for additional information may also extend the overall timeframe for an outcome to be determined.

Follow up on outstanding applications

Applicants seeking an update on the status of a re-letting application can contact NSW Fair Trading directly via the dedicated re-letting inbox:
 
[email protected]

NSW Fair Trading has advised that enquiries received through this inbox will generally receive a response within two to three business days
 
Where an agent is seeking an update on behalf of a landlord, a written authority from the landlord must be provided before NSW Fair Trading can release information about the application.

Continuing to advocate for members

This update is the result of REINSW's ongoing advocacy on behalf of members. We continue to raise industry concerns directly with Government and seek practical guidance on issues affecting property professionals and their clients.

Feedback from members plays a critical role in informing these discussions. Where practical or systemic issues or areas of uncertainty arise, REINSW will continue to pursue answers, clarity and improved outcomes for the real estate industry.

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