The draft legislation will allow restrictions against tenancy terminations to be switched on and off in response to Alert Level 4 by Ministerial order.

Under the proposed restrictions:

• landlords will not be able to terminate tenancies, except in limited circumstances
• most terminations will be postponed until after the restrictions lift
• landlords will still be able to apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to terminate tenancies on limited grounds, such as where a tenant engages in significant anti-social behaviour or substantial property damage.

The bill will be referred to the Finance and Expenditure Committee, where the public can provide feedback on the proposals.

The aim of the new legislation is to provide clarity for landlords and tenants during Alert Level 4 and to support tenants to comply with public health guidance to stay at home and remain in their current tenancy.

Providing certainty for landlords and tenants in Alert Level 4(external link) — Ministry of Housing and Urban Development

COVID-19 Response (Management Measures) Legislation Bill(external link) — New Zealand Parliament

Read COVID-19 information for landlords and tenants 

 

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