Adverse Possession Claims in NSW: Understanding the 12-Year Rule
28th August, 2026 What is Adverse Possession? Adverse possession is a legal process that may allow a person to apply for ownership of land they do not legally own. While sometimes referred to as “squatter’s rights”, adverse possession is not a simple process of claiming unused land. Applications require detailed evidence and must satisfy strict […]
What Are Rent Arrears and What Happens When Rent Goes Unpaid?
14th August, 2026 Rent arrears occur when a tenant falls behind on their agreed rental payments. In New South Wales (NSW), tenants must pay rent according to their tenancy agreement. Therefore, missing payments can breach the agreement and create legal consequences. For landlords, unpaid rent can quickly affect cash flow and property expenses. However, landlords […]
Property Law Case Spotlight: Muschinski v Dodds
26th March, 2026 The High Court decision in Muschinski v Dodds (1985) 160 CLR 583 is an important case in Australian property law. It helps courts decide what happens when joint property arrangements fail. The case involved a de facto couple who bought a house together. One partner contributed most of the money, while the […]
Promises, Property, and Estates
23rd July, 2025 In estate planning, what you put in writing matters – but so do the promises you make. The 2024 High Court case of Kramer v Stone is a powerful reminder that verbal promises, especially those made about inheritance, can carry serious legal weight. Even when they aren’t in a Will, such promises may be enforced […]
Electrical Safety in Rental Properties: Who’s Responsible?
10th June, 2025 Electrical safety in rental properties isn’t just good practice; it is a legal requirement in Australia. In New South Wales, any electrical fault that occurs before or during a tenancy is considered an urgent repair. This means landlords and tenants each have responsibilities they must meet under the law, especially regarding electrical […]
Understanding Agricultural Leases in NSW
12th May, 2025 Leasing agricultural land in New South Wales (NSW) is a common practice, especially in rural communities. These arrangements allow non-owners to use land for various farming activities, including grazing, dairying, horticulture, beekeeping, and more. Types of Agricultural Tenancies Agricultural leases or tenancies can take various legal forms. Some are formal written […]
Why Surveyors Matter in NSW Property Purchases
5th May, 2025 Buying property in New South Wales is exciting, but it can also come with risks—especially if you’re not thorough. While most purchasers know they need a conveyancer, some may overlook the importance of a licensed surveyor. That’s a mistake that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. What […]
What Is Title Insurance – And Do You Really Need It in NSW?
28th April, 2025 Purchasing property in New South Wales can be both exciting and overwhelming. Among the many decisions buyers face is whether to purchase title insurance. While it’s not compulsory, it can offer valuable protection against unexpected title-related issues. What Is Title Insurance? Title insurance is a one-off insurance policy that covers specific […]
Disputes with Your Landlord in NSW: What Tenants Need to Know
14th April, 2025 Renting a home should be a straightforward process, but sometimes disagreements arise between tenants and landlords. In New South Wales, there are legal avenues to resolve these disputes fairly. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid unnecessary stress and reach a positive outcome. Common Reasons for Landlord-Tenant Disputes Disagreements usually […]
Land Tax for Property Owners in NSW
24th March, 2025 Land tax is an important consideration for property owners in New South Wales (NSW). This annual tax applies to properties valued above a certain threshold. The following blog explains who is liable for land tax, how it is calculated, and when it must be paid. What Is Land Tax? Land tax is […]