Greater protection under new RTA bill

“These changes mean it’s essential we achieve an appropriate balance between landlords’ and tenants’ rights and obligations, because the bigger the rental market gets, the bigger its social and economic impact,” Building and Construction Minister Shane Jones said.

Another key proposal will introduce sanctions for landlords who fail to meet their maintenance responsibilities. Landlords will also be able to seek damages for some tenant breaches.

The existing RTA, which came into force in 1986, does not provide adequate protection to those living in boarding houses and some rented retirement accommodation. Under the proposed amendments boarding houses with six or more tenants will become subject to the act, as will some rented retirement accommodation.

Martin Evans, president of the New Zealand Property Investors’ Federation believes the changes to the bill are positive and is encouraging members to make their views on the proposed changes known.