The state government has overhauled South Australia’s rental laws with the biggest reforms in a generation set to take effect on 1 July.

These reforms represent the biggest changes to rental laws since the introduction of the Residential Tenancies Act in 1995. 

From July 1:

• Landlords will need prescribed grounds to terminate or not renew a tenancy.
• The notice period to end a fixed tenancy will increase from 28 days to 60 days.
• Tenants will be allowed to have pets in rental homes with clear guidelines.
• Tenants’ information will be better protected.
• Rental properties will have to comply with minimum housing standards.
• Additional options will be provided for victims of domestic violence.

For the first time, tenants will be allowed to keep pets in rental properties with clear guidelines to be set by their landlord such as keeping the animal outside or having the carpets cleaned at the end of the tenancy.

Landlords will only be able to end a periodic tenancy or not renew a fixed term lease for a prescribed reason including breaches by the tenant, wanting to sell, renovate or occupy the property.

The state government has also increased the minimum notice to end a fixed tenancy from 28 days to 60 days so tenants will have more time to secure a new home and make the necessary arrangements to move.

RentRight SA has been appointed to be the new Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service.

Its role will be to support tenants, as well as residents of residential parks, including advising and advocating for them to help resolve tenancy issues before the need for tribunal action. 

The organisation will also provide financial counselling, help complete forms and tenancy letters and be onsite at the tribunal as well as delivering information sessions about tenancy rights and responsibilities.

It will also inform strategic and operational policy formation at both the agency and sector level including by preparing submissions about issues affecting tenants and residents for the government's consideration.

Premier Peter Malinauskas says the changes will make life fairer for renters.

“South Australians shouldn’t have to choose between a pet and a home. Nor should they be evicted with no reason and little notice.

“These sensible measures that take effect from July 1 will make life easier for renters, while protecting the rights of property owners.

Andrea Heading, Chief Executive of the Real Estate Institute of South Australia, says the legislation is the most balanced in the country.

“We have worked collaboratively with the Government and our members to ensure that the reforms in South Australia are equitably balanced and protect the interests of both landlords and tenants.”