Every since 218-1 The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill was released, there have been several statements made in an effort to summarise the effects
of the Bill. Some statements are true, some are too broad-brush and should be qualified while others are entirely false.
We’ve put together this quick fact-checker to held landlords understand 218-1 better:
On the effects of the Bill
218-1 will give tenants more control in their rented homes.
Yes, but what good is control if rentals become more expensive and less accessible? It is entirely conceivable for landlords to either price the increased
risk and lost of control into the rent or remove underperforming properties from the rental pool.
The Bill will push self-managing landlords towards having professional property managers.
Yes, we can see that. Be mindful of how you select your property manager, this industry is unregulated.
On specific changes being proposed
Landlords can still terminate with a 90-day notice as long as you give a reason.
False. Your reason has to be sanctioned by the Act.
Landlords are still able to terminate for rent arrears and anti-social behaviours.
Untrue on account of procedural obstacles and operational impracticability
Landlords will be criminalised for breaching the RTA.
Landlords can no longer issue 14-day notice for rent arrears.
False. 218-1 does not amend s56. 14-day notice still stands and
you should continue using them.
Removal of 90-day notice to terminate and change in fixed-term tenancy rules will result in lifetime tenancy.
Landlords and family members will be less able to move into the rental property on account of a diminished definition for landlord’s family.
False. The...
