New rental laws
New rental laws came into effect from 29 March, 2021.
There have been considerable changes in this area.
Notice of intention to vacate
The normal 28-day process for a notice of intention to vacate remains unchanged if you are leaving when the tenancy is a periodic tenancy that runs week to week or month to month, on or after the last day of a fixed term agreement.
Exit condition reports
Exit condition reports are now done when a renter leaves a property. –These must occur within 10 days after the tenancy has ended, and the rental provider (landlord) must give the renter reasonable opportunity to attend. It is still a good idea to take extensive photos when moving in or out a property.
Reduced notice of intention to vacate
There has also been much change in relation to the renter giving a reduced notice of intention to vacate. A 14-day notice can now be given regardless of whether the termination date is before or after the fixed term agreement. This applies in the following circumstances:
- When a renter with special or care needs must leave to get care: evidence is required with the notice of intention to vacate
- The renter receives an offer from the director of housing or of a community house: evidence is required with the notice of intention to vacate
- The renter needs to access temporary crisis accommodation: evidence is required with the notice of intention to vacate
- The rental provider serves a ‘notice of intention to sell’ and the renter was not notified under the disclosure obligations at the start of the tenancy (Residential Tenancies Act 1997, section 86(1))
- If the renter has been given a notice to vacate under sections 91ZX-91ZZE of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.