Termites in a Rental: Landlord or Tenant? (NSW)

In NSW, termite damage is generally a structural issue, which usually falls to the landlord to address, not the tenant. A tenant who notices signs of termites should report it promptly. This is general framing only, not legal advice, so check with NSW Fair Trading or the relevant tenancy authority for anything specific to your tenancy.

Why this generally sits with the owner

Termites go after the structure: the frame, skirting, door frames, that sort of timber. Maintaining the building is generally the owner’s job, so termite treatment on a rental usually isn’t something a tenant is expected to arrange or pay for. Tenancy law has its own processes and timeframes for repairs though, and those are set by the tenancy authority, not by me.

What a tenant should actually do

If you’re renting and you spot mud tubes, damaged timber, discarded wings, anything that looks like termites, tell the landlord or property manager straight away. Put it in writing if you can, and chase it up if nothing happens. The reason to move quickly is simple: termite damage only gets worse the longer it sits, and a fast report can be the difference between a small job and a big one.

Where to get the specific answer

General framing only takes you so far. The exact obligations, timeframes and what happens if a landlord doesn’t act all come down to the tenancy agreement and NSW tenancy law. For that, NSW Fair Trading or the relevant tenancy authority is who to check with. What I can sort out is the practical side: whether termites are actually active, and what a treatment plan would look like.

Common questions

Is termite treatment the landlord’s or tenant’s responsibility in NSW?
Generally the landlord’s, since it’s a structural and building issue. That’s general framing though, so check your own situation with NSW Fair Trading or your tenancy authority.

What should a tenant do if they see signs of termites?
Report it to the landlord or property manager straight away, in writing if you can. The sooner it’s flagged, the less damage builds up.

Can a tenant arrange their own termite inspection?
That comes down to the tenancy agreement, so check with the landlord or property manager first. Once they’re told about a concern, a landlord can also book an inspection directly.

Managing a rental and worried about termite activity? Book an inspection and find out what you’re actually dealing with.