NSW Fair Trading is urging thousands of school leavers to be mindful when it comes to rental accommodation as they head to popular holiday destinations to celebrate the end of exams. 

Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe said that whilst it was only natural for school leavers to want to celebrate, it was important to be aware of the terms and conditions when staying in holiday accommodation.

“There have been instances where schoolies have been evicted from their accommodation for breaching the rules and left on the street with nowhere to go,” said Mr Stowe.

“You need to understand the circumstances under which an accommodation provider can ask you to leave or even call the police.

“Many providers will ask schoolies to pay a bond to cover any damage and if the repair cost exceeds the bond, you can be charged more.”

Mr Stowe said it was important to be aware of any ‘house rules’ that applied to schoolies accommodation such as noise and whether visitors are allowed.

“It is also very important to be aware of your personal safety and that of your friends. Windows and balconies are dangerous at any time and one slip in a momentary lapse of judgement can mean a serious accident if you let your guard down.”

Mr Stowe suggested schoolies take photos of their accommodation on arrival so they can leave the accommodation in the same state as it was when they arrived, and any pre-existing damage is documented.