2025 law changes; what they mean for you as a Tenant

The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill has officially become law, bringing changes that impact renters and landlords across New Zealand. From notice periods to pet rules, these updates aim to give landlords and tenants more flexibility to end tenancies if they need to, and clarify their respective rights. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Changes for Tenants:

From 30 January 2025

• 90-day ‘no cause’ terminations return – If you're on a periodic tenancy, landlords will now be able to end it with 90 days’ notice, without needing to give a specific reason or go through the Tenancy Tribunal.

• Shorter notice periods for tenants – If you’re moving out of a periodic tenancy, you’ll now only need to give 21 days’ notice (down from 28), making it easier to move quickly, if and when needed.

• 42-day notice for landlords – If a landlord is moving in, a family member is moving in, or the property is being sold, the notice period reduces to 42 days (previously 90).

• Fixed-term tenancies – Fixed-term tenancies will no longer automatically convert to periodic tenancies unless agreed upon. If a fixed-term ends before 30 April 2025, the previous rules still apply (meaning a valid reason codified in the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 is required to end the tenancy). After this date, the new termination rules will apply.  Under these rules, a landlord can give you notice (between 90 and 21 days before the fixed-term expiry date) to vacate the property by the end of the fixed-term without having to provide a specific reason.  

From 20 March 2025

• Smoking rules clarified - Landlords can now officially prohibit smoking inside rental properties.

• Family violence protections - Tenants needing to exit a tenancy due to family violence will have clearer legal protections and processes in place.

Later in 2025 (date to be confirmed)

• Pets and pet bonds - If you want to keep a pet, your landlord must have reasonable grounds to refuse. They can charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, but this amount stays the same regardless of the number of pets. This change provides clearer guidelines for tenants and landlords regarding pets in rental properties.

These changes could make it easier to secure a rental, especially if you’re a younger tenant or don’t have extensive references, as landlords may feel more comfortable renting under the new laws. You’ll also have more flexibility to move with the shorter notice period, and if you’re a pet owner, the new rules provide clearer guidelines for requesting permission. At the same time, enhanced tenant protections are in place to prevent unfair evictions and safeguard your rights.

If you have any questions about how these changes might affect your tenancy, your Barfoot & Thompson Property Manager is here to help. For more details, visit the official Tenancy Services website: www.tenancy.govt.nz/law-changes