As of 20 March 2025, several important updates to the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 have come into force, bringing enhanced clarity and support for both landlords and tenants.
The key changes include:
Communication & Notices
The Act now allows parties to agree on electronic communication methods, such as email, text, or even instant messaging, for serving notices.
No Smoking Clauses
Tenancy agreements that include a no-smoking clause for indoor areas will now be enforceable through the Tenancy Tribunal.
Email for Service
If an email address is listed in a tenancy agreement for service of notices, it can be used for up to two years after the tenancy ends for any Tribunal applications.
Decisions Without Hearing
The Tenancy Tribunal can now make decisions based solely on written application papers, if deemed appropriate, without requiring an in-person hearing.
Family Violence Protections
It’s now clarified that tenants' children or dependants are covered under family violence provisions.
Jurisdictional Limit
Tenancy Compliance and Investigations can now file applications to the Tenancy Tribunal with a jurisdictional limit of $100,000 per tenancy.
For more information about these changes, visit: tenancy.govt.nz/law-changes.
