I returned home to discover that the real estate agency had conducted an open house without my permission or prior notice (NSW). I’m still incredibly upset, as they entered the apartment I’m renting while trying to sell it. I began recording a video to capture their admission of being in my home without consent.
Does anyone have advice on how to protect myself or pursue legal action?
I’ve always been cooperative, having already scheduled two open homes, so this situation is particularly distressing.
UPDATE:
I have filed two actions against my real estate agency through NCAT.
One is for a breach of privacy under section 50, paragraph 2, for which I’m claiming a $1,100 fine, as mentioned by you. The second action is a request for a rent reduction due to a faulty air conditioning unit that has been broken since December (I’ve been without AC for several months now).
I’m also considering lodging a formal complaint with Fair Trading, as suggested, though I haven’t completed that step yet.
Additionally, I’ve researched other resources relevant to my situation:
I’ve reached out to legal aid and tenant services for further assistance as well:
For anyone dealing with issues related to their real estate agency, I recommend switching all communications to email. Written correspondence is easier to track and holds them accountable, while phone calls and in-person conversations can often lead to misunderstandings or be conveniently forgotten.
Our hearing is scheduled for the end of the month, and I’ll provide updates on the outcome along with any relevant emails if people are interested. 😊
It sounds like you’ve taken some solid steps to protect your rights as a tenant, and it’s great that you’re seeking advice and support to navigate this situation. Documenting everything and communicating in writing are definitely smart moves.
Regarding your upcoming NCAT hearing, be sure to gather all relevant evidence, such as photos, recordings, and communication records with your real estate agent. This documentation can strengthen your case significantly.
In addition to the steps you’ve already taken, consider reaching out to your local tenants’ advocacy group for further support—they can often provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Also, keep a detailed timeline of events leading up to the open home incident, as this can help illustrate the consistent issues you’ve faced.
It’s good to hear that you’re planning to file a formal complaint with Fair Trading; they can sometimes intervene effectively in disputes like this.
Lastly, your willingness to share your journey and insights with others can be invaluable, so definitely keep the community updated on your progress! It’s always useful for others to learn from real experiences like yours. Good luck with your hearing!