Rights and Responsibilities During Natural Disasters



Temporary Relocation

Tenants have the option to temporarily vacate the property until repairs are completed. However, landlords are not obligated to find or cover the costs of temporary accommodation for tenants.

If only part of the property is uninhabitable, tenants may choose to remain in the unaffected portion during repairs, provided there is no ongoing safety risk.

Agreement Termination and Repairs

Tenants and landlords can agree to formally terminate the tenancy agreement and re-sign a new one once repairs are finished. Tenants should be mindful that the new agreement may include a higher rent.

In cases where the property is destroyed or rendered wholly or partly uninhabitable, both parties can mutually agree to terminate the tenancy, often on the grounds of frustration of the agreement

Termination Process

If a mutual agreement cannot be reached, either the tenant or landlord can give written termination notice to end the tenancy. However, tenants cannot be evicted without a Tribunal order.

Natural disasters present challenging circumstances for both tenants and landlords, requiring careful navigation of rights and responsibilities. Communication and cooperation between both parties are crucial for determining the best course of action, whether it involves temporary relocation, agreement termination, or repair arrangements. By understanding their rights and obligations, tenants and landlords can navigate through these difficult situations with clarity and mutual respect.