NSW strata law reforms: what’s changing from 1 July 2025

Article by Camilla Jones 1 July 2025

From 1 July 2025, New South Wales (NSW) will implement the most significant overhaul of its strata laws in a decade. 

These laws — developed after years of consultations between government, real estate professionals and the community — aim to modernise governance, enhance transparency and improve liveability for tenants and people living in strata and community schemes across the state. 

If you’re a Property Manager, these changes will likely impact how your scheme operates.  

Here’s what you need to know to ensure you act within the remit of the new legislation: 

Minor renovations: automatic approval 

Strata committees now have three months to respond to a request for a minor renovation. If they fail to do so, the request is automatically approved. All approved renovations must be recorded and retained for 10-years. 

Sustainability and accessibility upgrades 

Sustainability is now a standing item at every Annual General Meeting (AGM). Schemes must consider energy and water efficiency and by-laws can no longer prohibit upgrades like solar panels or EV chargers based exclusively on appearance (unless the property is heritage-listed). 

Additionally, accessibility infrastructure (such as ramps and lifts) can now be approved by a simple majority vote, making it easier to create inclusive environments. 

Unfair contract terms banned 

New consumer protections will prevent strata management and supplier contracts from including unfair terms, including clauses that shift liability to owner’s corporations or limit service provider accountability. 

These rules apply to all contracts entered into, renewed or altered from 1 July 2025. 

New duties for committees and chairpersons 

There are now new requirements in place to ensure strata committee members act honestly, fairly and lawfully. Chairpersons are now required to run meetings in an open and orderly manner, encouraging constructive discussion.  

These changes aim to professionalise committee conduct, increase transparency and improve decision-making processes. 

Repairs and maintenance: no more delays 

Owner’s corporations can no longer delay essential repairs due to legal disputes if safety or access is affected.  

Owners now have six years to lodge claims for failure to maintain common property — an increase from two years. 

Assistance animals: simplified evidence 

Residents who need an assistance animal now only need to provide one form of evidence. This can include a permit, ID card or letter from a registered health practitioner. 

This change supports inclusivity and reduces administrative hurdles for vulnerable people. 

Strata Manager reporting and record access 

Strata managing agents will now be required to report to owner’s corporations every six months, detailing their activities. 

Inspection fees for non-owners will also increase to $60 for the first hour and $30 for each additional half hour. 

All digital records must be delivered via secure platforms. 

Utility contracts and embedded networks 

The new laws limit embedded network contracts to three years and require full disclosure in sales documentation. 

This applies to water, gas, electricity, EV charging and other utilities. 

Developer accountability 

Developers are now required to hold the first AGM within two months of the end of the initial period and provide all required documents at least 14 days in advance. 

Penalties for non-compliance can exceed fines of $11,000. 

Overall, these reforms mark a pivotal shift in how strata schemes are managed across the state of NSW.  

For those involved in property management or ownership, now is the time to review by-laws, update contracts and prepare for a more transparent and equitable strata landscape.