Purpose-Built Student Accommodation contracts

Understanding your contract

Signing a contract with a Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) provider legally means you agree to the terms and conditions in the contract. It is important to always read a contract before you sign it and make sure you get clarification about any of the clauses you don’t understand. SUPRA can help you understand your PBSA contract. Contact us for help.

Your contract outlines your responsibilities and obligations as an occupant and informs you of your rights. When you sign the contract, you enter into the agreement for the period from the start to the end date in your contract.

In addition to the contract, you will also be given a Resident Handbook that has strict rules around behaviour. Your contract will have a clause requiring that you comply with these rules and any other PBSA policies and procedures.

Breaking a clause in your contract

If you break a clause in your contract, or a clause in the PBSA’s policies, procedures or Residential Handbook, you have breached the terms and conditions of your contract.

A minor breach will typically result in a written warning. However, a major breach may result in notice of termination or immediate eviction.

Some breaches – such as damages or unpaid rent – may result in a loss of some, or all, of your security deposit.

Disputing a breach

The PBSA should have policies and procedures for disputing a breach.

You can also apply to NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)  if you disagree with any claims from your security deposit, or if you believe you are being unfairly evicted.

SUPRA caseworkers can help you apply to NCAT. Contact us for help.

Read more about PBSA disputes.

Disclaimer

This information is current as of November 2024 and is intended as a guide to the law as it applies to people who live in or are affected by the law as it applies in NSW. It does not constitute legal advice.

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Written by SUPRA Postgraduate Advocacy Service and Legal Service November 2024.