Get legal help within tenancy
A rental apartment is a housing unit you rent from a landlord. The landlord can be a private individual, a company, or a co-operative housing association. When you live in a rental apartment, you pay a monthly rent to live there, but you don’t own the property. Tenancy laws protect both tenants and landlords, outlining the rights and obligations of both parties.
Some of your rights as a tenant
- Protected tenancy: You have the right to remain in the property even if the landlord wants to terminate the agreement, as long as you haven’t violated any rules, such as failing to pay rent or behaving improperly.
- Reasonable rent: Your rent must be reasonable and comparable to similar properties in the area. If you believe it’s too high, you can request a review by the Rent Tribunal to potentially lower it.
- Maintenance: The landlord is responsible for ensuring the apartment is in good condition and livable. If the apartment isn’t maintained, the landlord must handle necessary repairs and maintenance.
Some of your obligations as a tenant
- Paying rent on time: You have to pay rent according to the agreement. Failing to do so can result in losing your right to stay in the property.
- Caring for the property: You have to take care of the apartment and avoid causing damage. If damages occur due to your actions, you may be responsible for repair costs.
- Following rules: Tenancy requires you to adhere to the property’s rules, such as those regarding noise levels, pets, and shared spaces.
Terminating a rental agreement
If you plan to move out of your rental apartment, you have to give notice to terminate the agreement. Typically, the notice period is three months, but it can vary. It’s important to terminate the agreement in writing and obtain confirmation from the landlord.
What we help with in tenancy matters
Legal consultation
We offer legal advice to both tenants and landlords. We help you understand your rights and obligations under rental laws and provide guidance on how to handle various situations that may arise.
Dispute resolution
If you’re in a dispute with your landlord or tenant, we assist in resolving the issue. We negotiate on your behalf and represent you in any legal proceedings regarding tenancy.
Drafting and reviewing rental agreements
We help draft or review rental agreements to ensure they’re reasonable and legally sound. We make sure all key aspects, such as rent, termination periods, and maintenance responsibilities, are clearly defined in the agreement.
Get legal help today
Do you need help with tenancy matters? You can always get in contact with our lawyers within just 24 hours when you need quick answers to your questions. Or you can email or call us whenever you need to hire a lawyer for legal assistance.
FAQ about tenancy
Can I transfer my rental apartment to someone else?
Yes, in certain circumstances, you can transfer your rental apartment to a close relative, but this requires the landlord’s approval. It’s important to follow the specific rules for rental transfers.
What happens if my landlord terminates the agreement?
If your landlord terminates the agreement, they must have valid reasons. You have the right to have the termination reviewed by the Rent Tribunal. In many cases, you have protected tenancy, which allows you to stay in the apartment.
What should I do if the rent is too high?
If you believe your rent is unreasonably high, you can contact the Rent Tribunal for a review. The tribunal can decide to lower the rent if they determine it’s excessive.
