Upcoming changes to tenancy law

Citizens Advice Bureau Ōrākei-Remuera from Citizens Advice Bureau Ōrākei-Remuera

Hello Neighbours.
The following laws will come into effect on 11th February. If you are a landlord/lady or a tenant, these changes could affect you. Come in to the CAB or phone us on 09 524 0298 if you want to discuss your situation.

Security of rental tenure – Landlords will not be able to end a periodic tenancy just by providing 90 days’ notice (as has been the case). Landlords can only terminate a tenancy on the basis of one of the prescribed reasons.

Changes for fixed-term tenancies – All fixed-term tenancy agreements will convert to periodic tenancies at the end of the fixed term unless the parties agree otherwise, the tenant gives a 28-day notice, or the landlord gives notice in accordance with the termination grounds for periodic tenancies.

Making minor changes – Tenants can ask to make changes to the property and landlords must not decline if the change is minor. Landlords must respond to a tenant’s request to make a change within 21 days.

Prohibitions on rental bidding – Rental properties cannot be advertised without a rental price listed, and landlords cannot invite or encourage tenants to bid on the rental (pay more than the advertised rent amount).

Assignment of tenancies – All requests to assign a tenancy (get someone else to take over the tenancy) must be considered. Landlords cannot decline unreasonably. If a residential tenancy agreement prohibits assignment, it is of no effect.