Are you a landlord? With more than 130 changes made to the laws surrounding residential tenancies, you will be impacted. From pets and rent increases, to picture hooks and inspections, know where you stand.
The reforms to the Residential Tenancy Act will be implemented progressively over the next 18 months and will all be in effect by 1 July 2020.
How are landlords affected?
The reforms will have a significant impact on landlords of residential premises. Some of the key reforms include the following:
- Landlords will no longer be able to advertise a price range for rent (must be a fixed rent amount).
- Prior to entering into a lease landlords must disclose an ongoing proposal to sell the residential premises.
- Landlords must adhere to more robust condition reporting.
- Landlords must ensure rental properties meet a basic minimum standard for amenities, safety and privacy e.g. providing functioning toilets, kitchen stovetops, window coverings etc.
- Landlords cannot prevent tenants from making minor modifications/alterations to the premises e.g. installing wall hooks and furniture anchors.
- It will be more difficult for landlords to withhold consent to the tenant keeping a pet on the residential premises.
- Rent can only be increased every 12 months (currently every 6 months).
- Landlords must provide tenants with more notice before attending the premises for inspections, valuation purposes etc.
- Landlords will no longer be able to provide a ‘no specified reason’ notice to vacate for periodic residential tenancies, a reason must be provided.
- Landlords must compensate tenants for sales inspections.
- A register listing all landlords and agents who have breached their legal obligations will be created and available to the public.
Our experienced Property team can help you to navigate the changes.
