Navigating Change: Key Wins in the Upcoming Residential Tenancies Act Reforms

As agency members of the Real Estate Institute of SA (REISA) and through my role as REISA Director, Turner Real Estate has been actively engaged with Government negotiations around a new Residential Tenancies Act.

Set to take effect in the winter of 2024, these changes come after diligent negotiations and collaborative efforts and there is still work to be done to ensure a comprehensive understanding among all parties regarding the practical implementation of these reforms.

Here are some of the noteworthy wins that will have a tangible impact on the real estate landscape:

• Creation of an offence for tenants providing false information in applications.
• Introduction of multiple grounds for refusal of a pet, with tenants required to appeal to SACAT if facing a landlord’s refusal.
• Extensive prescribed grounds for termination of a lease, including provisions for threatening behavior and repeated breaches.
• Introduction of break lease fees during the 60-day period due to tenant breaches.
• Strict timelines for excessive rent applications.
• Permission for re-inspections with the consent of the Tribunal.
• Streamlined process for handling extensions and concessions for water payments, placing the responsibility on tenants.
• Extended storage of tenancy information in various documents for up to 5 years.
• Expanded provisions for the death of a sole tenant, allowing termination after 30 days in the absence of notice or agreement.
• Introduction of break lease fees for ALL form 2s, not just rent arrears.
• Routine inspection notices within a more flexible 7 to 28-day timeframe.
• Limiting tenant-placed caveats to leases of 3 years or more.
• Reduced period for handling abandoned property from 28 days to 7 days.

Additionally, we are pleased to support various minor amendments that simplify and streamline challenging scenarios, such as the death of a tenant or dealing with abandoned property.

At Turner Real Estate, we understand the significance of staying informed and prepared. As this crucial legislation progresses through Parliament, we are committed to keeping you updated. Our team will undergo extensive training to ensure a seamless transition, securing the best possible outcomes for you, our valued clients.

Thank you for trusting Turner Real Estate as your dedicated partner in real estate matters.