Big changes for renters - and landlords - on the way

The new laws will apply to leases signed on or after November 1, well ahead of the expected commencement of March 2020.

The government says the changes will allow renters to make their house feel more like a home, and give them more freedom to choose how they live.

But the laws have been criticised by the opposition as putting an unfair burden on landlords.

Under the new laws, a landlord cannot ban pets completely and could only refuse consent if it gets the approval of ACAT.

If the tenancy agreement does not have a provision about pets, the tenant may have a pet without the permission of the landlord.

Landlords would also have to go to ACAT to refuse a request to make minor modifications, which include things like putting up picture hooks, installing a bathroom shelf, painting walls or putting blinds on a window.

The tenant would be responsible for restoring the property to the same condition at the end of the lease, unless otherwise agreed.

Break lease fees will be limited to six weeks total rent to be paid by the tenant if the lease is terminated within six months of the original lease agreement. This fee is reduced to four weeks should the tenant discontinue the lease after a period of six months.

Landlords won't be able to increase rent beyond CPI when a new lease is agreed - subject to tribunal hearings.

Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay said the changes echoed similar reforms in other jurisdictions and followed extensive consultation. "These landmark reforms will provide better outcomes for renters whilst still respecting the rights of landlords," Mr Ramsay said.

"As more and more people choose to rent it's important that they have the appropriate safeguards to feel established and comfortable in their home. "We know that by implementing these changes that quality of life will drastically improve for those in the rental market."