Phase Two of the RTA reforms will come into effect on 29 July. This includes limiting rent increases to 12 months, pets, minor modifications and the new dispute resolution process.
12 month limit on rent increases
The 12 month limit on rent increases will apply to periodic tenancies as soon as the legislation comes into effect on the 29th, even if you have already issued 60 day notices.
For fixed term tenancies, it will apply once the current term of the lease agreement ends. You can still include six month rent reviews in leases signed before 29 July, and these will be enforceable.
Pets and minor modifications
Pets* and minor modifications will be allowed in most cases, with the tenant needing to seek permission from the landlord. There is a specific process to follow, with the tenant required to seek permission using an approved form and set timeframes for a response and action from the landlord.
The regulations list the following as minor modifications:
- Picture hook
- Screw for a wall mount, shelf or bracket
- Wall-anchoring device
- Water-efficient shower head
- Hand-held shower head
- Lever-style tap
- Security light, alarm system or security camera
- Wireless doorbell
- Window covering
- Adhesive child-safety lock on a drawer or door
- Pressure-mounted safety gate
- Lock on a gate
- Child-safety device on a window
- Lock on a letterbox
- Draughtproofing
- Telephone or internet connection
- LED light bulb which does not require a new light fitting
- Anchor for a blind or cord
- Non-permanent window film
- Flyscreen on a door or window
- Vegetable or herb garden
- Painting a room
For the following modifications, the landlord can impose a condition that the work be carried out by an appropriately qualified person without Commissioner approval:
- Lever-style tap
- Hardwired alarm system, security camera or security light
- Telephone or internet connection
- Non-permanent window film
- Painting a room
A condition for the tenant to provide a copy of the invoice for the work can also be imposed.
* Note: while the scope of the pet bond will be increased to cover damage, this will not come into effect until the new bond’s disposal process is enacted in early 2025.
Dispute resolution process
Disputes about minor modifications and pets will be reviewed by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection, who will review submissions and potentially seek more information from both sides before making an independent ruling. DEMIRS have recruited a team to deal with these disputes to ensure a timely response.
Landlords and tenants will have seven days to appeal a decision to the Magistrates Court, and the Commissioner can elect to refer disputes straight to the Magistrates Court.
