Significant changes to residential tenancy laws came into effect on May 1st, 2025, aiming to improve transparency, privacy, and fairness in rental arrangements. These reforms impact both tenants and property managers, so it’s crucial to stay informed. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
- Changes to Entry Notice Requirements
The minimum notice period for property entries has been extended from 24 hours to 48 hours. Additionally, after a Form 12 (Notice to Leave) or Form 13 (Notice of Intention to Leave) has been issued, lessors or property managers are now restricted to entering the property no more than twice in a 7-day period. These updates are designed to give tenants more privacy and reduce disruptions during sensitive periods.
- Tighter Privacy and Data Handling Obligations
New privacy regulations place clearer limits on how tenant information is collected, stored, and disposed of. These changes reflect a broader push for data protection and mean property managers must handle personal information with increased care and responsibility.
1. Standardised Rental Application Forms
From now on, all rental applications must be submitted using the official Form 22 – Rental Application for General Tenancies. This move standardises the process and helps ensure that all applicants are treated fairly. Importantly, there are now strict limits on the type and amount of personal information property managers can request, offering greater protection for renters’ privacy.
3. Tenant Requests for Fixtures and Modifications
Tenants who wish to make modifications or structural changes to the rental property must now submit their request using a new prescribed form. Once received, the lessor has 28 days to respond. While property owners can decline the request, they must not unreasonably refuse modifications, supporting more flexible living arrangements for tenants.
These legislative updates reflect a continued effort to balance the rights of tenants and landlords while improving the overall rental experience. If you’re a tenant or property manager, now is the time to review your practices and ensure compliance with the new rules.