Private landlords and professional property managers are bound by the regulations and laws under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (RTA) amended by the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020, Residential Tenancies (Healthy Home Standards) Regulations 2019, and the Housing Improvement Regulations 1947.
Topics: Property Management, Residential, Landlords, Tenants
The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 broadened the Tenancy Tribunal’s jurisdiction and administrative powers. This included introducing infringement fees for landlords and property managers who do not adhere to the Residential Tenancies Act. These are in addition to an increase in exemplary damages that can be awarded by the tribunal to either landlord or tenant, payable by the other party.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants, compliance
The two remaining provisions that were due to come into effect on 11 August 2021 (12 months after the date of Royal Assent) have been delayed.
Topics: Property Management, Residential, Landlords, Tenants
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must comply with all legal requirements relating to buildings, health and safety that apply to the premises. They must also ensure that the premises can legally be lived in at the start of a tenancy.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants
It is an unlawful act not to include a statement that details the current level of compliance with the healthy homes standards in any new or renewed tenancy.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants
Landlords cannot write clauses into tenancy agreements that conflict with the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants
At Harcourts, we take our obligations to tenants seriously and it is important that we help them to understand their responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 and also understand what the landlords’ responsibilities are.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants
From 11 February 2021, the requirement for landlords to keep records has been extended to include documents related to both the tenancy and property.
Topics: Property Management, Landlords, Tenants
Rental homes need to be free from mould and dampness before being rented out. During a tenancy, tenants need to keep the house well-aired and remove any mould straight away.
From 1 July 2021, private landlords must ensure their rental property complies with the healthy homes standards within 90 days of any new or renewed tenancy.
Topics: Property Management, Advice, Tenants